In a league dominated by blistering slap shots and slick toe drags, there’s still something undeniably deadly about a crisp backhand especially under pressure.

In my latest short clip, we take a look at one of the most underappreciated skills in hockey: the backhand shot in high traffic situations. It's not flashy, but it’s game breaking when executed right.

Game situation: tight space, defender on your hip, no time to pull it to the forehand. You’ve got one shot and it’s going to be a backhand. The difference between a panic play and a goal often comes down to how often you’ve drilled this exact scenario.

This is the kind of play that separates elite players from good ones. It’s not about highlight reels it's about reliability and repetition. Great players don’t just react, they trust their habits under pressure. And that includes their backhand.

Here’s why it matters:

Goalies cheat to the forehand, a clean backhand can beat them glove-side.

Tight-angle chances often leave only the backhand open.

In the chaos of playoff hockey, it's the players who can make quick, smart, under-pressure decisions who rise to the moment.

This drill reinforces that exact moment. It’s simple, fast, and rooted in real-game tension. Whether you're a coach working with young players or a seasoned pro keeping the tool sharp, the backhand under pressure should never leave your training.

Incorporate this drill into your weekly routine:

-Keep the pace up.

-Add defensive pressure.

-Finish every rep with intent.