Drill: Blazers Gap Control 1 on 1 Drill

• Drill Description:
• Step 1: On the whistle, F1 dumps the puck into the near-side corner for D1 to retrieve.
• Step 2: D1 gaps up to the bottom of the circle, then pivots and accelerates to retrieve the puck as quickly as possible.
• Step 3: While D1 retrieves the puck, F1 simulates a winger’s breakout route, curling up near the hash marks and opening up for a pass.
• Step 4: D1 makes a breakout pass to F1, then both players sprint up the ice toward the opposite end, heading toward the coach at the far blue line
• Step 5: When F1 reaches the red line, they pass the puck to the coach and immediately open up toward the boards for a return pass.
• Step 6: At the same time, D1 gaps up to the red line, then pivots to face up ice, preparing to defend the upcoming 1-on-1.
• Step 7: The coach passes to F1, who now attacks D1 in a live 1-on-1 for a scoring opportunity.

Key Teaching Points

• Defensemen Focus:
• Quick retrievals & efficient pivots
• Strong first breakout pass
• Good communication with forwards
• Controlled gap as play transitions
• Proper stick positioning and body angle
• Finish with a strong defensive 1-on-1

   

• Forwards Focus:
• Crisp timing on breakout and transition
• Clean passing & receiving under pressure
• Simulating realistic breakout positioning
• Executing a live 1-on-1 attack using speed and puck protection techniques