Global tactics library

The Wedge + 1 is most effective against a 1-3-1 powerplay that relies on cross-seam plays from its flankers. F2, the weak-side forward, cuts off the critical east-west passing lane while keeping tabs on the bumper player. On downhill plays, F1 traps down to push the flanker outside the dot lane while deterring a pass back to the point.

A more aggressive alternative to the 1-1-2 is the 1-2-1. Rather than staying near the strong side post, D1 flexes out (see above) to challenge the flanker, thereby creating a diamond shape. In theory a Diamond PK suppresses shots and prevents zone time, but in practice it is often vulnerable to high danger chances originating from the bumper and back door areas.

The traditional Box PK features two defensemen near the net and two forwards pressuring the points. It is a logical arrangement against PP formations that have multiple players standing near the blue line, such as the 3-2 Spread and the 2-3 Umbrella. The gap between Fs and Ds can be exploited by a well-run 1-3-1.

A Triangle with two defensemen near the net is the most viable formation in a double shorthanded situation. The compact 1-2 shown above prevents cross-seam one-timers, which are the preferred scoring pattern in a 1-3-1. The powerplay can either take lower-danger shots and hope for tips, screens and rebounds, or morph into a 2-1-2 (see Powerplay section).

By and large, teams defend more passively when down a player than at even strength. Exceptions apply in Four Go and Behind the Net situations. If the PP makes a poor pass to the area behind the net, both penalty killing Ds swarm the puck while Fs collapse. The net acts as an obstacle preventing the PP from accessing the slot with a direct pass, so it’s a worthwhile gamble to pressure aggressively in hope of getting a quick clear.

The Four Go is an essential part of any successful penalty kill. On a 50/50 wall puck, all four PKers sprint to create a numerical advantage. The idea is to win the puck quickly and clear it out of the zone. F1, F2 and D1 fight along the boards. D2 stops a few stick lengths away in case the puck squirts out of the pile. The Four Go can be associated to any of the PK schemes described above, though PKers in an aggressive 1-2-1 or 2-2 will be quicker to the puck than those playing a static 1-1-2.