Escape to Decision

PURPOSE

Working on puck control and escape maneuvers in a tight area while also incorporating hockey sense and decision making.

SKILLS

HOW TO

Using two cones as markers, the first player in line with a puck skates forwards around far cone and back to first cone.
The stop facing toward the cones then transition to backwards.
The skate backwards to top cone, transition back to forwards and proceed to first cone.
The stop facing toward the cones, then open up and skate between the cones.
Just past the cones, they will have to make a decision which way to go around the coach (coach should use stick/body to angle the player to the inside or outside).
Once around the coach, the player takes a shot on net.

FOCUS

Good close and controlled puck handling. This is to mimic moves that may be made in a tight area to retain and create space.
Skating edge control. Players should make tight turns and stay as close to the cones as possible and resist the urge for big loops or not stopping in the direction instructed.
Smart decision making. By the coach directing one way or the other, players need to start to see where there is more open ice. Some players will always go one way or another despite the coach putting out a stick and reducing the lane. Work with them to identify the gap and take advantage.

VARIATIONS

Add a pass at the bottom and return pass as the player cuts through the cones (shown)
Change the location of the drill from going across the zone to north-south
Have a more active defender or use a static obstacle instead of a coach
Swap out the coach with a passer and the player has to play the puck off the passer and react to that