In the charged atmosphere of the Stanley Cup playoffs, every second counts. During a riveting 2025 playoff clash between the Winnipeg Jets and the St. Louis Blues, a two-on-one for the Blues unfolded with the Jets on defense and the Blues on the attack. Let us analyze what happened. This clip offers invaluable lessons for both players and coaches. See the video above.

Mastering Positioning and Scanning
In this play, the defenseman positioned himself squarely in the center of the ice, inside the dots—a critical area bridging both defensive and offensive responsibilities. With superb backward “C” cuts, he kept his head up to scan the entire ice, assessing, “Who has the puck? Where is my backchecker?” This methodical scanning prevents odd-man rushes and neutralizes potential scoring chances.

The Power of Communication
Observation is only one piece of the defensive puzzle. Recognizing an impending threat, the defenseman at once communicated with his teammates. His clear verbal commands like “pressure him, I got him, you take the puck” combined with decisive non-verbal signals ensured everyone on the ice was connected. This blend of communication transformed his effort into a collective triumph, stifling the attacking team's momentum.

Disrupting the Offensive Flow
As the Blues moved to set up a 2-on-1 situation, the defenseman's focus never wavered. Directing the backchecker to the puck carrier, he efficiently limited the puck carrier’s options by tightly marking the non-puck carrier, denying the use of both hands and stick and taking him to the net.

The Backchecker’s Crucial Role
No defensive play is complete without the relentless effort of the backchecker. Recognizing the developing threat, the backchecking forward sprinted back with 2nd and 3rd efforts. Constantly scanning the play, once directed by his defensemen, he quickly closed off passing lanes with well-timed stick checks, pressuring the puck carrier into rushed decisions, and disrupting potentially critical scoring opportunities. His strategic awareness halted the attack, setting the stage for a rapid transition from defence to offence.

Key Defensive Concepts
To execute this coverage effectively, players must rely on fundamental tactics:

• Play the “Guts” of the Ice: Position yourself inside the dots to force opponents towards the boards and limit central lanes.
• Maintain Stick-on-Puck Pressure: Keep one hand on your stick while retreating, preparing for poke checks or sweeping motions.
• Constantly Scan the Ice: Keep your head up to stay aware of openings and threats, adjusting coverage as the play unfolds.
• Communicate Effectively: Use clear verbal and non-verbal signals to ensure teammates understand your position and intentions.
• Utilize Body Angle and Containment: Approach the puck carrier at an angle directing them toward the boards.
• Make Decisive Moves: Quick decision-making is essential in defense and transition.

Learn by Watching and Practice
While it is inspiring to see professionals execute these habits, the real value lies in applying them yourself. Treat every televised game as a masterclass. Notice breakdowns on 2-on-1 situations and see defenders scan, communicate, and hustle back to the net. Clear communication is “the lifeblood of teamwork,” keeping players coordinated and ready to react.

By actively studying the game—power play entries, odd-man rushes, defensive recoveries—young athletes can build their hockey sense. On the ice, practice these habits: keep your head on a swivel, talk to your teammates, and always skate hard back. Every shift offers a lesson, and the routines pros use can transform a skillful player into a great defender.

Enio Sacilotto is President of International Hockey Camps and operates 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.