This drill works on a couple of things in addition to an escape move. Players should be familiar with the escape move and be able to do it comfortably before trying this drill. The overall concept is for players to use awareness and puck protection in order to be successful.
To start the drill place the defender on the face off dot with a puck and the attacker just outside the top of the circle (see diagram). The drill starts by the attacker making an aggressive backwards start and receiving a pass from the defender. The defender then pressures the attacker and tries to take the puck away outside the zone. They should be very aggressive. The attacker will use an escape more to protect the puck. They need to be aware of the pressure from the defender and use deception to protect the puck and escape in order to gain the zone and take a shot on net.
Coaching Points
- Players need to sense and be aware of the pressure and escape to the opposite side.
- Use deception to lure the defender to one side.
- Once players have gained the advantage they need to move their feet to eliminate the defender from the play.
one on one play