🧠 Hockey IQ Breakdown: 3 Ways to Create Scoring Chances
Learn how elite players consistently create scoring chances by manipulating space, pressure, and defensive structure.
From: Topher Scott of The Hockey Think Tank (Apple Podcasts | Spotify)
Scoring goals is one of the toughest skills in hockey—and one of the most talked about. To beat defenders and goaltenders at higher levels, you need more than just dangles and a lethal shot. You need to out-think the opposition.
Here are three core principles that elite players and teams use to consistently generate quality scoring chances.
1️⃣ Use the Back of the Net
Why it works:
Attacking from behind the net forces defenders—and especially the goalie—to monitor both what’s in front of them and what’s happening behind them. That split-second confusion is often all it takes to capitalize, especially at the highest levels.
The Hockey IQ:
Goalies (and defenders) must shoulder-check constantly.
It creates unpredictability and hesitation in defensive coverage.
2️⃣ Change Sides
Why it works:
Modern defenses pressure quickly and often overload the puck carrier to force turnovers. Quickly switching the puck to the other side of the ice breaks that aggressive pressure and creates space.
The Hockey IQ:
Move the puck across the ice via a pass, rim, or skate it yourself.
Changing sides resets the defensive structure.
Opens up new shooting lanes and better angles of attack.
🎥 VIDEO: 3 Ways to Generate Goals
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Final Takeaways
3️⃣ Find Soft Areas
Why it works:
Great scorers don’t just stand around—they constantly move to find open space in the slot, especially while the puck is moving side-to-side or low-to-high.
The Hockey IQ:
Time your movement with the puck’s movement.
Slip between defenders as they shift coverage.
Be ready to shoot the moment you receive the puck.
🚨 Final Thoughts:
Scoring isn’t just about skill—it’s about awareness. These three principles—using the back of the net, changing sides, and finding soft ice—aren’t flashy, but they’re foundational to creating offense in a game that is increasingly sound defensively. Master them, and you’ll be in the right place at the right time more often.