Sharpen up — today’s edition is loaded.

A shooting tweak that unlocks real power, a strength progression every young player screws up, and three IQ habits that create scoring chances at every level.

Let’s get better. 📈

From: Maxim Noreau of Noreau Hockey (Instagram)

Shoot like Matthews & Bedard with this simple fix.
Most players pull the puck forward and lose all their leverage — which kills power. Max breaks down a clean setup that forces proper puck placement, loads the stick the right way, and builds the foundation for the Matthews/Bedard stride-formation shot.

From: Travis Martell of Martell Elite Fitness (Instagram)

3 exercises every young hockey player should master before split squat jumps.
Most kids jump before they’re strong enough to land safely. Travis breaks down the simple 3-step split-squat progression that builds single-leg strength, knee stability, and clean landing mechanics—so young athletes can actually jump with power and control.

Bonus Drills from the HPC Community:

Deceptive stutter steps to create space from Cassidy Hillworth

How to ruin a goalie’s life with stutter steps from Kevin McKinnon

From: Topher Scott of The Hockey Think Tank (Apple Podcasts | Spotify)

3 smart ways to create scoring chances in the offensive zone.
Most players rely on skill alone, but scoring chances come from smart reads. Topher breaks down three simple, high-IQ habits — using the back of the net, changing sides, and finding soft ice — that consistently create offense at every level.

Bonus Hockey IQ from the HPC Community:

“Reroute” to become a better option from Geoff Schomogyi

If you can’t open up your hips, you’re limiting your game from Dustin Donathan

ICYMI: Late in the 3rd vs. Seattle, Connor Bedard broke in alone, took a slash on the hands with no call, snapped at the ref, and ended up with an unsportsmanlike that turned into the game-winner against.

Here’s the clip if you missed it:

Last week’s poll: You forgot a piece of equipment at home. Would you rather: wear someone else’s skates or someone else’s stick?