In the second round of the 2023-24 NHL playoffs, the Vancouver Canucks and the Edmonton Oilers played a thrilling seven-game series that kept fans on the edge of their seats. The Oilers came out on top, and a significant factor in their success was their strong defensive play.

Effective hockey defence requires players to master several essential skills. They must protect the middle of the ice, direct opponents to less dangerous areas (through effective angling), keep their stick on the puck, engage physically with the body when they can't get the puck with their sticks, and execute these actions quickly. Throughout the series, the Oilers demonstrated these defensive fundamentals, often dictating the flow of the game by limiting the Canucks' scoring opportunities.

Teams that excel in puck possession aim to dominate the offensive zone. This strategy involves "checking to create offence" – the relentless effort to regain control of the puck immediately after losing it. Essential tactics for achieving this include closing down time and space for the opponents, maintaining a tight gap, and applying constant pressure. The Oilers exemplified these principles, particularly in the decisive Game 7 against the Canucks.

In the accompanying video, Jennifer Botterill highlights the Oilers' high-pressure checking from this crucial game. Pay close attention to their stick-on-puck technique, which was instrumental in disrupting the Canucks' plays and regaining puck possession. This effective defensive play was a cornerstone of Edmonton's victory in this hard-fought series.