Intro
Unlock the strategies behind North Americas top hockey systems. Explore the 5 key systems used by top teams, including Man-to-Man, Zone, Neutral Zone Trap, Left Wing Lock, and 1-2-2 Forecheck. Understand the strengths and weaknesses of each system, and how theyre used to gain a competitive edge. Improve your hockey IQ with this in-depth guide.
Hockey is a beloved sport in North America, with a rich history and a passionate fan base. At the heart of the sport are the various systems that teams employ to outmaneuver their opponents and score goals. In this article, we will delve into five key North American hockey systems, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and the teams that use them.
The Neutral Zone Trap
The Neutral Zone Trap is a defensive system that involves clogging the neutral zone with players, making it difficult for the opposing team to transition the puck. This system is designed to limit the opponent's scoring opportunities and create turnovers.
How it works:
- The defending team sends two players to the neutral zone, one of whom will engage the opposing player, while the other will support and anticipate a pass.
- The other three players will stay back, protecting the defensive zone and anticipating a potential breakaway.
- When the opposing team gains possession, the defending team will collapse and force them to make a difficult pass or shot.
Teams that use it:
- The New Jersey Devils popularized this system in the 1990s and early 2000s, winning three Stanley Cups during that time.
- The Los Angeles Kings also employed the Neutral Zone Trap during their 2012 and 2014 Stanley Cup championship runs.
The Left-Wing Lock
The Left-Wing Lock is an aggressive forechecking system that involves the left wing pressuring the opposing team's defense and creating turnovers.
How it works:
- The left wing will pressure the opposing team's defense, attempting to create a turnover or disrupt their breakout.
- The center will support the left wing, while the right wing will stay back and provide defensive coverage.
- When the opposing team gains possession, the left wing will quickly transition to a defensive role, pressuring the puck carrier and attempting to create another turnover.
Teams that use it:
- The Pittsburgh Penguins employed the Left-Wing Lock during their 2009 and 2016 Stanley Cup championship runs.
- The Boston Bruins also used this system during their 2011 Stanley Cup championship season.
The Overload System
The Overload System is an aggressive forechecking system that involves multiple players pressuring the opposing team's defense and creating turnovers.
How it works:
- The left wing and center will pressure the opposing team's defense, attempting to create a turnover or disrupt their breakout.
- The right wing will stay back and provide defensive coverage, while the defense will pinch in and attempt to create a turnover.
- When the opposing team gains possession, the left wing and center will quickly transition to a defensive role, pressuring the puck carrier and attempting to create another turnover.
Teams that use it:
- The Toronto Maple Leafs employed the Overload System during their 2018-2019 season, resulting in a playoff appearance.
- The Colorado Avalanche also used this system during their 2019-2020 season, resulting in a top-three finish in the Western Conference.
The 1-2-2 System
The 1-2-2 System is a neutral zone system that involves one player pressuring the opposing team's defense, while the other two players provide support and coverage.
How it works:
- The left wing will pressure the opposing team's defense, attempting to create a turnover or disrupt their breakout.
- The center will provide support and coverage, while the right wing will stay back and anticipate a potential breakaway.
- When the opposing team gains possession, the left wing will quickly transition to a defensive role, pressuring the puck carrier and attempting to create another turnover.
Teams that use it:
- The Nashville Predators employed the 1-2-2 System during their 2017 Stanley Cup Final appearance.
- The Vegas Golden Knights also used this system during their 2018 Stanley Cup Final appearance.
The Full-Court Press
The Full-Court Press is an aggressive forechecking system that involves all five players pressuring the opposing team's defense and creating turnovers.
How it works:
- The left wing, center, and right wing will pressure the opposing team's defense, attempting to create a turnover or disrupt their breakout.
- The defense will pinch in and attempt to create a turnover, while the goalie will provide support and coverage.
- When the opposing team gains possession, the left wing, center, and right wing will quickly transition to a defensive role, pressuring the puck carrier and attempting to create another turnover.
Teams that use it:
- The Tampa Bay Lightning employed the Full-Court Press during their 2020 Stanley Cup championship run.
- The Dallas Stars also used this system during their 2020 Stanley Cup Final appearance.
Gallery of Hockey Systems
Hockey Systems Image Gallery
FAQs
What is the Neutral Zone Trap?
+The Neutral Zone Trap is a defensive system that involves clogging the neutral zone with players, making it difficult for the opposing team to transition the puck.
What is the Left-Wing Lock?
+The Left-Wing Lock is an aggressive forechecking system that involves the left wing pressuring the opposing team's defense and creating turnovers.
What is the 1-2-2 System?
+The 1-2-2 System is a neutral zone system that involves one player pressuring the opposing team's defense, while the other two players provide support and coverage.
In conclusion, the five key North American hockey systems discussed in this article are the Neutral Zone Trap, Left-Wing Lock, Overload System, 1-2-2 System, and Full-Court Press. Each system has its strengths and weaknesses, and teams that employ them effectively can gain a competitive advantage. By understanding these systems, hockey fans can gain a deeper appreciation for the strategic aspect of the game and the nuances of team play.