Net Automatic is a tactical strategy in hockey that focuses on creating scoring opportunities from behind the opponent's net. By positioning players around key areas, such as the face-off dots and the high slot, teams can generate unexpected passing and shooting angles. This approach disrupts traditional defensive setups and requires coordination among players. The tactic is adaptable, making it effective in both even-strength and power-play situations, ultimately enhancing a team's offensive capabilities.

The Offensive Zone Setup

Players must position themselves around the face-off dots and the high slot to create optimal passing lanes. This formation enables quick puck movement, making it difficult for the opposing team to defend. The player behind the net acts as a central playmaker, and with the help of his support players' positioning and coordination, this setup allows for dynamic offensive plays that maximize scoring opportunities.

Challenges for Goalies

Shots and passes originating from behind the net are the most difficult to track for goalies. They need quick reflexes and impeccable positioning to adjust. The unpredictability of passes from this area can force goalies to shift focus rapidly, impacting their ability to make crucial saves.

Defensive Zone Confusion

Defending against Net Automatic can be highly confusing for defenders. Anticipating plays when the puck is behind the net requires a high level of awareness and communication. Defenders must constantly adjust their positions to block passing lanes and prevent scoring opportunities. Strategies to counter this tactic include maintaining tight coverage around the net and ensuring that no offensive player is left uncovered. The unpredictability of Net Automatic can create moments of confusion, leading to breakdowns in defensive coverage.

Applications in Game Situations

Net Automatic can be utilized effectively during various game scenarios. In standard 5-on-5 play, it introduces an element of unpredictability that challenges the defense. During power plays, the tactic becomes even more advantageous due to the extra space, allowing for a more dynamic execution. This approach creates high-quality scoring chances, enhancing the overall offensive strategy.

Gretzky 3v2 Behind The Net Drill;

This small area game is played from the top of the circles and below. The coach has the pucks in the middle of the ice and the players are split into two teams and lines up at the top of the circles to define the boudary.

The coach will dump a puck in and designate one team to have 3 players join the game while the other team will have two. The team that has three players must always have one player below the goal line. They can rotate players behind the net but they must always have 1 behind the net.

Each rep is performed with 3 pucks. First 2 pucks (Gretzky) has to play the puck from behind the goal line with a 2v2 in front of the net. With the 3rd puck it's a full 3v2.

Coaching Points;

• defensive players need to communicate
• defensive players need to be aware of the switches
• forwards should create swtiches and rotate from behind the net to create confusion for defense
• fowards need to "find the passing lane" to the player behind the net
• Create and find open ice to get open and to get shots through

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