The 4 on 2 Split Power Play Drill from Cail MacLean allows teams to practice power play and penalty kill habits in a wide and narrow game setup. Teams that move the puck quickly and move around their area will be successful. Standing still will make it easier for a team to defend.
Setup
- Split the zone in two with cones or a rink marker. One side of the zone has a net on the goal line and the other zone has the net on the hashmark next to the boards.
- There should be a total of 12 players on the ice with 6 players on each side. Divide it up so each side is 4 on 2.
- The coach is at the blue line with pucks. On the whistle the coach fires a puck to one of the players or chips it into an area where players must compete for possession.
- The side with the puck begins 4 on 2 with the offense trying to score, and the defenders are trying to get the puck to their teammates on the other side of the ice.
- Make sure players get reps on both areas of the ice since each setup presents unique opportunities, situations and challenges.
Coaching Points
- The team with the 4 players should work hard to use the 4 v 2 to their advantage by moving the puck quickly and skating around the zone. Look for cross ice seems and quick shots on net.
- Defenders should not chase the puck too far, but stay in the middle of the ice with their sticks on the ice to block passing lanes.
- Defenders that get the puck should work hard to get their eyes up and make a tape to tape pass to their teammates on the other side of the ice.
Variations
- Can play 4 v 2, or 3 v 2.
- Can set up the nets as shown in the diagram, or have them both on the goal line, or both on the hash marks.
