Examining A Critical Set Of Core Defensive Zone Decision-Making Skills: When To Pressure Vs. When To Contain?

By Paul Lubanski

Today's blog will outline a set of extremely important defensive-zone play concepts that all coaches must introduce. And above all--insure that each of his/her players--most especially defenseman-- fully comprehend and employ.

That rules concern acquiring the ability to discern and decide when it is appropriate to exert a "pressure" or "contain" defensive effort when faced with a one-on-one confrontation.

Obviously, if the puck is in YOUR end of the surface--particularly within 30  feet (or less) of the cage--it is vital that the correct decision is made as to whether it is appropriate to apply intense pressure or to proceed in a more conservative fashion.

Essentially, there are three scenarios that a player must be educated to be able to recognize, so that he/she will automatically/instinctively become programmed to select the best course of action to undertake.

And they are:

1. The opposing player has full or "team control" of the puck with his/her head up-- and is clearly scanning the surface to engineer a play or shot possibility.
   
2. The opposing player has full or "team control" of the puck but is facing the boards and hence--is not fully aware of all the most dangerous options that he/she could pursue.
   
3. The third situation-- which can be identified more accurately as "level of possession/or lack thereof"--has the puck in close proximity to an opposing players stick, however--it is rolling or bouncing along the wall and is still technically considered "loose."

So each of the above detailed scenarios require a slightly different defensive "posture " or approach.

Regarding the first, a defender must carefully approach the opponent at an angle with stick extended properly in order to deny passing/shooting options. The defender should also be in a "glide" mode with feet underneath the body for maximum balance and agility. If possible, the goal for the defender  should be to use his/her body to check or "pin"  (without holding) the opponent--this is obviously considered a CONTAIN-type effort.

The second situation enables the defender to attack the puck carrier in a slightly more aggressive manner. However, the defender must still approach at an angle that would steer his/her check in the least dangerous (typically into a corner) area of the surface. One very intelligent reminder to pass along to your players in this scenario is the following: Your defender should remember/realize that the offensive player will always leave the puck exposed (thus "vulnerable") when he/she tries to spin-away from the oncoming defender. A reach-around poke-check can and should be employed to knock the biscuit loose.

The final situation certainly allows for the defender to be extremely aggressive and does not necessitate that he/she approach at an angle. Here, the defender should look to take the body of the offensive player and then seek help (communicate) to gain possession and clear the zone effectively. The key is to make absolutely sure that your check is contained/controlled and all his/her options have been eliminated.

In closing coaches, I must once again emphasize how crucial it is to internalize and teach the information put forth above regardless of the level of play that you are coaching. Because in my opinion, understanding when to "pressure" vs. "contain" are core building blocks related to playing sound fundamental defense in your own zone. I implore you to research the methodology further--and teach it systematically throughout the season. You will not only be prepping your players for the next level--but in the course of doing so--you will be lowering your club's GAA significantly.

Best of luck.

Paul Lubanski









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