How to the Run the Shooting Power Play System in Ice Hockey

The shooting power play system is one of the most effective power play strategies that teams can use in ice hockey. As the name suggests, the focus is on getting as many shots on the opposing teams goal as possible during a power play. When a team has a power play, they have an advantage in the number of players that they have on the ice, so they typically are better able to control the play and set specific strategies up.

In order to set up the shooting power play, a team needs to be in their offensive zone. They should line up with both defensemen toward the top of their respective circles just inside the blue line. The remaining three players should be in front of the goal, staggered so that the defensive team has a harder time covering them all.

The purpose of the shooting power play is to work the puck up to the defensemen so that they can shoot the puck on net. The players in front of the goal have two main purposes: screening the goalie and getting rebounds. After the puck is passed to one of the defensemen, the players in the front of the net should crash the net, confusing the defending players and hopefully blocking the goalies line of sight. If the puck is tipped of deflected, it is important that these players also attempt to score off of a rebound shot or, if that is not possible, start the cycle over again by passing the puck back up to the defensemen.

The players in front of the net should also be able to be an outlet pass for when the defenseman is pressured. If he or she is not able to pass to the other defenseman, it is important that one of the players in front of the net slides over towards the boards more so that a passing lane is established. The overall goal is to work the puck back up high, but it is not always possible due to the defensive players. This can be a very effective power play when done correctly.

Sources:

USA Hockey
Composite Hockey Sticks