Playing without the puck is one of the key indicators of elite IQ.
It’s one thing to create time and space with the puck, but it’s another to do it without the puck. What specifically can you do to create time and space without the puck?
The middle lane drive.
Watch how this Philadelphia Flyers goal by Kevin Hayes from the 2020 playoffs gets created.
Most are familiar with the concept on 3-on-2’s but it can be applied in a variety of situations.
This applies to exiting the zone, controlled breakouts, and (the situation illustrated above) attacking against odd numbers. This allows players to build speed under the puck and pull defenders out of position.
After the puck carrier Robert Hagg kicks the puck to one side, he drives his feet into the open space. The faster you can transition from puck carrier principles to offensive principles without the puck, the more effective the middle lane drive will be.
Also, defenders tend to get puck focused once that middle lane drive is established. Any time you can force defenders to get puck focused, time and space will be created.
Hagg doesn’t score on the play, nor does he interfere with the opponent. But he was hugely responsible for the goal by Hayes, and he did draw the New York Islanders defenceman out of the play.
Actionable insight
- Once you move the puck, drive feet into space
- Avoid admiring your pass
- Work to the strong side post
- Be ready for loose pucks or a pass back
The middle lane drive is an effective tactic to open Grade A areas for attack. Worst case: you end up at the net. You know what tends to end up there too? The puck!
Implement this concept into your game more consistently to create more offence entering the zone.
