In the fast-paced world of hockey, the ability to outwit opposing goalies can often be the difference between scoring a goal and missing an opportunity. Corey Perry of the Edmonton Oilers exemplifies the art of deception in shooting, highlighting a masterful blend of patience, awareness, and skill. Here is a breakdown of techniques that can elevate your game and help you emulate Perry's brilliance on the ice.
Head Up and Scanning the Ice
The foundation of effective deception starts with keeping mindful awareness of your surroundings. Keeping your head up allows you to scan the ice, find gaps in the defense, and analyze the goalie’s positioning in the net. By taking mental snapshots of the situation, you can anticipate opportunities rather than rush into action. Perry demonstrates this skill by analyzing the defensive structure before making his move, ensuring his shots are calculated and strategic.
Patience: Catch and Release
Two common mistakes players make are:
- Excessive stickhandling before shooting.
- Catching and releasing the puck too quickly.
There is a time to "catch and release," and there is a time to be patient—receiving the puck, stabilizing yourself, and then deciding on the best moment to strike. Perry’s ability to delay his shot just enough to freeze defenders or lure the goalie into a vulnerable position highlights the value of timing.
Using Fake Shot Moves
Deception thrives on misleading your opponent. Incorporating fake shot movements can disrupt the defence and force them to over-commit. Perry excels at feigning a shot, creating just enough hesitation to exploit openings.
Manipulating the Shooting Angle
Changing the puck’s position to alter the shooting angle is a highly effective technique. Perry often pushes the puck in front of his body, forcing the goalie to adjust and creating new scoring possibilities. This move heightens unpredictability, and manipulating angles can open shooting lanes that seemed blocked just seconds earlier.
Quick Release
Once you have set up the perfect shot, execution is key. A quick release ensures that the goalie has minimal time to react, turning deception into a tangible advantage. Perry’s ability to combine a shift in angle with an instantaneous shot often leads to goals.
Conclusion
Corey Perry's approach to shooting is a masterclass in deception and precision. By keeping your head up, scanning the ice, using fake shot moves, manipulating the shooting angle, and employing a quick release, you can dramatically improve your ability to score goals.
These techniques require practice and patience but can transform your game, allowing you to capitalize on opportunities. For further insights into shooting fundamentals, click here for an excellent article.
Whether you are a budding hockey player or a seasoned veteran, incorporating these strategies can elevate your scoring ability and bring a touch of Corey Perry’s ingenuity to your game.
Enio Sacilotto is President of International Hockey Camps and runs the Mental Edge High-Performance Training. Enio has 43 years of coaching experience (professional hockey in Europe and the Victoria Royals (WHL)). Currently, he coaches at the Burnaby Winter Club Hockey Academy, is the Croatian National Men’s hockey team coach and is the Head Coach with the Grandview Steelers. If you have questions or are interested in his services, contact Enio at enio@coachenio.com or call 604 255 4747. Website: www.coachenio.com.
