Tipping the puck is such a high-end skill, requiring hand-eye coordination, which is something that you have to practice on and off the ice.
Joe Pavelski is one of the best in the world at tipping pucks, as evidenced by the video below. He always finds time to master the skill.
This is like a work of art:
I’ve watched all the goals from the 2020 NHL playoffs and have organized the goals scored by a tip or deflection into five categories shown below.
- See also:
1. Standard deflection
No, sorry, I don’t have anything new for this one. Usually, a defenceman shoots the puck towards the net and the forward tries to get a stick on it.
Why is it so hard for the goalie to stop?
Not only does the puck change direction but so does the body position of the forward. We have a great net-front presence here. Take notice of the hand-eye coordination.
2. Battle for position in front
Body position is such a crucial part of the game these days. In the video below, take a look at the forwards working around the defender to get in a better position to tip the puck.
In the second part of the video, watch as winning the battle from the corner is just the beginning, hustling to the net to gain body position on the defender (that is trailing behind you) is a great way to get available to tip the puck. It works better on a low to high, D to D play.
3. Tipping from the high-slot
The difference between this one and the first example we showed is the position of the forward.
It is essential to understand that tipping the puck can come from different spots on the ice. The typical spot was usually close to the net. High tips, however, works on the “second layer” or above the hashmark.
Joe Pavelski might be the best in the world at it . . . SEE MORE OF THE COACHES SITE Join The Coaches Site to access the latest drills, tactics & leadership lessons from hockey's top coaches. Already a member? Login
Mitch Giguere
Mitch Giguere ChPC, is the father of four children and a passionate hockey coach. Assistant Coach for Carabins Université de Montréal (USports W). Former Assistant and Video Coach in the KHL. Mitch has his High Performance 2 from Hockey Canada and has an Advanced Coaching Diploma (NCCP4) from the Canadian Sports Institute. You can reach out to Mitch via email at [email protected] or SMS 450-578-1187
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