How To Score More Goals: Go Where The Goals Are Scored, But Tactfully
If you want to score more goals, there is a tried and true way to do it... go where the goals are scored!
Where do goals get scored in ice hockey? Near the net, of course!
If you want to score, you must get toward the net. Here is a good clip from Mike Babcock from a pregame press conference, followed up by all six goals from that night’s game:
So we know that most goals are scored from near the net, but as we’ve discussed in the past, it’s not just about going to the net and standing there. There should be an element of timing along with a habit within how we navigate the ice/skating routes.
Related Reading: Offensive Hockey: Timing Your Arrival To The Slot
Follow your shot to the net
A simple yet effective habit is to finish to the net by following your shot there. Instead of simply admiring your shot, shoot and move. It’s almost always a good idea to move once the puck leaves your stick, whether a pass or shot.
Funnel to the net
Even when you don’t have the puck, it’s a good idea to funnel your way to the net. Or simply beat the defensive player off the wall and gain inside body-positioning to find passing lanes and loose pucks.
Understanding where to go to score more goals is important. Becoming more tactful in your game habits to get to the net with great timing and consistency is a great way to increase your goal-scoring.
Further Reading