Weak Side Transition

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Weak Side Transition, Weak Side Transition
By: Michael Peca
Michael Peca

The Weak Side Transition Drill from Michael Peca focuses on quick transitions from offensive-zone play to defense and back to offense. It reinforces puck recovery, reloading on defense, and generating speed on the weak side to create offensive chances.

Setup:

  • Starting Position:
    • A forward starts with the puck near the low corner and passes it low to high to a defenseman at the blue line.
    • The forward heads to the net for a potential tip or rebound.
    • A second forward is also net-front, looking to engage in the play.
    • A defenseman walks the blue line and delivers a shot on net.
  • Net-Front Battle:
    • The forwards attempt to tip or retrieve the rebound while the defenseman works to clear sticks and rebounds.
    • Play continues for a few seconds after the shot to simulate real-game puck battles.

Transition Phase:

  • Defensive Reload & Puck Strip:
    • On the whistle, the coach takes off with a puck up the boards to simulate a breakout attempt.
    • The attacking players must quickly reload to a defensive mindset, cutting off the coach before the blue line.
    • The goal is to force a turnover and regain possession.
  • Weak-Side Attack:
    • The defenseman backs out into the neutral zone to receive the pass.
    • Meanwhile, the forward who was net-front reloads with speed up the weak side.
    • If the forward is a right-handed shot, they’ll receive the pass on their backhand and must scan the ice for positioning.
  • Decision-Making & 2-on-1 Play:
    • The coach can instruct the defenseman to either:
      • Step up aggressively to kill the play.
      • Back off and defend a 2-on-1 rush coming back into the zone.
    • The puck-retrieving forward moves through the middle of the ice, creating a 2-on-1 opportunity against the transitioning defenseman.

Key Teaching Points:

  • Quick Transition Mindset: Shift rapidly from offense to defense and back to offense.
  • Defensive Reloading: Close space quickly and cut off passing lanes.
  • Weak-Side Speed: Encourage explosive movement on the weak side for better scoring chances.
  • Decision-Making: Allow the defenseman to dictate the play by stepping up or defending a 2-on-1.

Variations:

  • Adjust the aggressiveness of the defenseman to challenge offensive players differently.
  • Allow the coach to vary the breakout path to increase decision-making complexity.