Quick Transition 1-on-1

Drill Description

The drill timing is controlled by the whistle.

The D steps out of the corner with a puck and makes an outlet pass to the F on the far side boards.

The F accelerates up the boards and out of the zone before turning around the cone in the neutral zone and attacking back on the D.

F can turn tight and cut back on D.
F can go right at D and try to catch them with mismatched speed.
F can go wide on D.

A 1-on-1 is played to the net.

F’s and D’s switch sides halfway through the drill.

Teaching Points

  • Solid first pass from the D.
  • F should accelerate with the puck out of the zone.
  • D must close the gap quickly.
  • D tries to mirror F and use their stick to get proper angle.
  • D attempts to match speed and direction of attacking F.
  • When attacking, F needs to have head up to see the D’s position.

Notes for the Coach

This is a tough drill for the defense. It replicate plays where the puck is turned over in the neutral zone and often the D are caught flat footed. Ideally, the D will be able to get across the ice fast enough that they will be able to pivot the same direction as the F.

When executed properly by the D the F should only be able to get a shot on goal from the outside.

Since the drill will be run out of both corners, you will be able to identify your players’ strong and weak sides. Make a note of it for each player so that you can help them develop turning and pivoting both directions. Don’t let them only turn to their preferred (strong) side.