Learning Ice Hockey Rules: Can a Player Cover or Fall on a Puck?

One thing that often confuses a fair number of people in the game of ice hockey is what happens when a player falls on or covers a puck. If done unintentionally, the play is stopped and a face off takes place, with no penalization occurring. However, if a player intentionally covers the puck during play, then a penalty will be assessed by the referee. Goalkeepers are allowed to cover the puck the majority of the time, however in certain instances, they too can be penalized for certain infractions.

Depending on the location of the puck when a player intentionally covers the puck, either a minor penalty or a penalty short may be assessed. If a player cover the puck in the defensive crease at any time, the offensive team will be given a penalty shot. However, when the puck is anywhere else on the ice, and a player intentionally falls on or brings the puck into his or her body in an attempt to stop play, then a two minute minor penalty will be assessed for delaying the game.

Goalkeepers have a privileged area in which they are free to cover the puck and stop play. However, if they venture outside of that area, they no longer are given the same opportunity and can also be penalized if they cover the puck. Additionally, if a goalie freezes the puck when it is behind the goal line and he or she does not have a portion of his or her body inside of the goaltenders crease, then he or she will be awarded a two minute minor penalty.

Another rule intending to decrease the number of stoppages in a game is in place for goalies. If the goalkeeper is in possession of the puck and there are no offensive players around and he or she is not under any pressure, then he or she must play the puck out instead of freezing it. If the goalie refuses to do this, he or she can be penalized for delaying the game. However, a goalie is typically given one warning before a penalty is issued.

Sources:

USA Hockey
Ice Hockey Helmet