Overview
This Strip and Transition to Low-High Shot drill from Jason Lammers can be used as a warm-up drill that engages goalies while reinforcing good habits for both defensemen and forwards. It focuses on puck protection, defensive positioning, and transitions.
Setup
- Players:
- Defensemen (D) start in two groups: one near the blue line and the other at center ice.
- Forwards are split into two groups (X and O), starting at opposite ends of the rink.
- Puck Placement: Each forward group starts with a puck.
Execution
- Initial Play: Each of the forwards on both ends of the ice start with the puck. They are tracked by a defending player who strips them of the puck.
- Puck Recovery: After the forward strips the puck, they pass it back to the defenseman positioned near the blue line. The D gathers the puck and makes a pass to the forward who was initially stripped on the other side of the ice.
- Transition to Offense: The forward who receives the puck continues skating, while the player who made the strip loops around to join the rush. The two forwards create a 2-on-0 against the goalie and execute a shot.
- Low-to-High Play: After the 2-on-0, the forwards get a puck from the corner and pass the puck to the defenseman, initiating a low-to-high play. The defenseman takes a shot on net with the forward providing a screen or deflection.
- Repeat: The drill resets with the next group of players on both sides of the ice.
Coaching Points
- Defensemen (D):
- Focus on body positioning and protecting the inside lane.
- Make crisp, accurate passes to forwards after recovering the puck.
- Communicate with forwards during the transition.
- Forwards:
- Work hard to strip the puck and quickly transition to offense.
- Be ready to receive passes and execute plays at full speed.
- Provide a strong net-front presence during low-to-high shots.
