Attacking in 2 on 1's

                                              Attacking in 2 on 1's

          I believe that there are some statements for the attackers that are absolutely true regarding 2 on 1 situations:

  1. Both players should always be inside the dots so that each attacker is a genuine threat to the defender and, thus, he cannot necessarily eliminate the main danger, thereby reducing the offense's chance for success.
  2. Both players should always be certain that they are not in a straight line with the defender between them. The attackers should always work to create a passing lane; otherwise, their options are greatly restricted.
  3. Both players should always keep their sticks on the ice. This presents a target for the passer and because that is where the puck travels. The opportunity to score could be lost in the time it takes to accept the pass by lowering the stick.
  4. A good chance to score should always occur. When in doubt, a shot should be taken.
  5. If the attacker without the puck is on his off-wing, he should align his body so that a target for the pass is presented and a forehand shot can be snapped.

   

          The man without the puck should "read" the defender. Is there a passing lane for him to go to the net or should he stay back? The attacker with the puck should judge if there is a passing lane for his partner and deliver the puck if his teammate breaks.

          Also, the puckcarrier could sprint for the net, thus forcing the defender to turn and pursue him. When this occurs, the attacker could pass back in the center to his teammate who would trail the play and be in position for a straight-on shot. If the defender plays softly as the attacker drives for the net, the puckcarrier can continue and take a shot.

          Of course, both attackers must be synchronized. Consequently, teams should practice establishing keys for each player to identify and respond to in a particular way. If each cannot decipher the actions of the other, their chance for success would be greatly diminished.