Scoring a goal in NHL 22 can be one of the most satisfying feelings in video gaming. And if you’re looking to take your game to the next level, then learning how to shoot between the legs is an essential skill that you need to master.
Shooting between the legs, also known as the “Michigan” or “lacrosse-style” shot, has become increasingly popular amongst top players. This move involves picking up the puck on the blade of the stick and bringing it behind the player’s leg before quickly flipping it up into the air towards the net from behind the goalie’s lacrosse structure – all in one fluid motion.
If performed correctly, this trick shot can catch even the best goaltenders off-guard and give you an edge in scoring. But mastering the technique requires practice and time. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to shoot between the legs and score more goals in NHL 22.
“Practice makes perfect. So go out there, put in the effort, and watch as you start to see the results!”
From understanding the basics of stickhandling to honing your muscle memory with some advanced drills, we’ve got you covered. By the end of this guide, you’ll have all the tools you need to add the Michigan to your arsenal and start lighting the lamp like never before.
Table of Contents
Understanding The Importance Of The Between-The-Legs Shot
In NHL 22, players are looking for ways to improve their game and gain an edge over the competition on the ice. One of the most useful skills a player can learn in this regard is how to shoot between the legs. There are several reasons why mastering the between-the-legs shot is so important.
- The first reason has to do with adding flair to your game. Whether you’re playing in a casual match or a competitive league, being able to perform eye-catching moves like the between-the-legs shot can help you stand out from the crowd and make a name for yourself as a skilled player.
- A second reason to learn the between-the-legs shot is that it can be an effective tool for creating space and getting past defenders. As one hockey coach notes, “When you’re up against stronger, bigger defensemen, you need to come up with something creative to get around them.” Using the between-the-legs move to fake out an opponent and create space can be just the trick you need.
- Last but not least, incorporating the between-the-legs shot into your offensive repertoire can give you more options when attacking the net. When executed correctly, the move can catch goalies off guard and lead to unexpected goals and scoring opportunities.
โThe best way to score goals in modern-day hockey is through creativity.โ โMike Babcock
Adding Flair To Your Game With The Between-The-Legs Shot
If you want to add some excitement to your gameplay, learning how to shoot between the legs is a great place to start. The move involves shifting the puck from one side of the body, skating forward and then flicking a wrist shot or a snap shot through your legs towards the net.
One of the keys to mastering this technique is practicing proper body positioning. The hockey stick must be held between your legs, with one end resting against the ice near your back skate while the blade should face forward. As you move towards the net, shift the puck from one side of the body to the other and then shoot it through your legs quickly before you reach the crease.
It’s worth noting that while the between-the-legs shot looks impressive, it shouldn’t be used solely for showmanship. Instead, use it as a calculated tactic when necessary to surprise defenders and catch goalies off guard.
“The skill level of NHL players today is so good that they need to invent something new in order to create space or score goals.” โPavel Datsyuk
Creating Space And Getting Past Defenders With The Between-The-Legs Shot
As mentioned earlier, the between-the-legs shot can be an effective tool for creating space and getting past defenders. If you find yourself in a one-on-one situation against a tough defender who won’t give any ground, using the between-the-legs shot can be a great way to fake them out and get around them.
To execute this move on defensemen, come down either wing and pass the defender at the corner. Approach their body while maintaining control of the puck. Bring the puck into the middle, hold it behind your back foot with the toe pointed diagonally facing toward the outside, keeping the bottom of the blade low against the ice. Use your momentum to flick the puck through your legs and onto your other forehand. Then, continue skating straight toward the net.
The key to making this work is timing: practice this moves until you get comfortable enough that you’re not telegraphing it to the opposing defender. If executed right, this move can give you enough space and unpredictability to earn a breakaway chance or even a clear shot on goal.
“They have no clue that theyโre going to go between my legs so I can create a scoring opportunity.” -Patrick Kane
Incorporating The Between-The-Legs Shot Into Your Offensive Repertoire
Finally, if you’re looking for ways to improve your offensive game in NHL 22, adding the between-the-legs shot to your repertoire is a great strategy. Not only can it help you stand out from other players, but it can also be an effective way to score goals when traditional shots won’t do the job.
To get started practicing this move, take it slow. Try executing it at half speed during sticktimes or informal practices until you build up the muscle memory and comfort with the puck shift, taking strides forward and shooting through your legs toward the net.
Once you feel comfortable performing the between-the-legs shot under controlled conditions, start working on incorporating it into live gameplay situations. Remember: the key is to use this technique strategically rather than just as a flashy gimmick; surprise defenders with your quick release timing to disorient them just enough to gain an edge and seize an opportunity beyond their expectations.
“Greatness isn’t given. It’s taken by those who truly care about what they do. They speak with action and not words, inspire others around them to reach new levels and always stay hungry for more.” โSidney Crosby
Learning The Proper Timing And Positioning For The Shot
Reading The Defender To Determine The Right Moment For The Shot
The first step towards shooting between the legs in NHL 22 is to determine the right moment for the shot. Reading the defender’s movements, especially their stick position and body posture can help you anticipate when to shoot. Keep an eye on how they are approaching you and use that information to make a decision.
“Observation and timing are everything.” -Wayne Gretzky
One of the best ways to read your opponent accurately is through practice. Whether it is by playing online or offline, try to get as much experience as possible so that you know what to expect from defenders at different levels. This will allow you to develop a better understanding of their tendencies and improve your ability to read them quickly.
Positioning Your Body For Optimal Execution Of The Between-The-Legs Shot
To execute the between-the-legs shot effectively, proper positioning of your player is key. First, ensure that youโre in close proximity to the goal and there are no obstacles like other players blocking your path. Then, face the net with the puck positioned between your legs.
“If you’re going to be thinking anything, you might as well think big.” -Donald Trump
The next step is to tilt your stick blade downward and angle it slightly behind you, making sure that the backhand side is facing the direction in which you want to shoot. You also need to lower your center of gravity and bend your knees to add more stability and balance to your stance.
Perfecting The Footwork And Ball Placement For The Between-The-Legs Shot
Incorporating good footwork to your shot can help ensure that the puck goes where you want it. Before executing the move, shift your weight back onto your front foot while still holding on to the puck in-between your legs.
“Good hockey players play where the puck is. Great hockey players play where the puck is going to be.” -Wayne Gretzky
Next, transfer your body weight forward while flicking the puck up with your stick and rolling it over towards the front side of your blade. This allows you to guide the puck out from between your legs and manipulate its direction toward the net. Finally, follow through by shooting the puck with proper timing to ensure accuracy.
As with any skill in NHL 22, practice is key when learning how to shoot between the legs. Keep practicing these techniques until they feel natural, and eventually, you will improve at doing them successfully every time. Soon enough, you’ll find yourself becoming a master of this flashy but effective shot.
Mastering The Button Combos To Execute The Shot Successfully
The “Between-The-Legs” shot, also known as the “The Michigan,” is a popular and impressive move in the NHL 22 game. It allows players to trick goalies by hiding the puck behind their leg before quickly throwing it into the net. However, executing this shot requires more than just pressing one button. Here are some tips to help you master the button combos for a successful between-the-legs shot.
Understanding The Controller Mapping For The Between-The-Legs Shot
To successfully pull off a between-the-legs shot in NHL 22, players need to know the controller mapping. The first step is to position your player correctly. Ensure that your player is either beside or slightly behind the net.
The next step is selecting the proper buttons on your controller. You must press LB/L1 and RT/R2 at the same time to lift the stick while skating backward towards the opposing team’s net. Then, move the right joystick down so that the player puts the puck between his legs while still holding the left bumper button. Finally, flick the right joystick upwards to make the shot.
Practicing The Button Combos To Build Muscle Memory For The Shot
Muscle memory plays an essential role in mastering the between-the-legs shot. Practicing the button combos repeatedly will create muscle memory, allowing you to execute the move smoothly during gameplay.
Go to Practice mode and try out different scenarios to improve your skills. Try honing your timing when shooting the puck with varying speeds and distances from the goal post. Also, experiment with different angles, eventually finding your sweet spot and perfect positioning.
Using The Timing Window To Maximize Your Shot’s Accuracy And Power
The timing window for the between-the-legs shot is narrow but crucial. To ensure you hit your target, release the right joystick just before the shooting animation begins. This will maximize your power and accuracy.
Another way to improve your shot’s effectiveness is by practicing your timing when using it during a game. Pay attention to instances where you missed or made the shot, watch the replays, and analyze the timing of the stick lift and release of the puck.
Combining The Between-The-Legs Shot With Other Moves For Maximum Effectiveness
To be unpredictable and increase your chances of scoring, blend your “Between-The-Legs” shot with other moves like spin-o-ramas and dekes.
“The ability to combine multiple moves makes players hard to predict,” says NHL analyst Drew Remenda. “It increases the chance of getting open looks on goal.”
Practice these moves separately first so that you can get comfortable combining them later. Try different combinations and find out which ones work best in different scenarios.
- The Spin-O-Rama: Start behind the net with your player holding the puck and begin rotating forward around the back of the net while using RT/R2 and LB/L1 (as if performing a regular deke.) When your player has rotated far enough, use the right analog stick to flick the puck towards the goal.
- Dekes: Choose from several dekes available in the game to fake out defenders as you approach the goal post. Use RB/R1 and the left joystick together to execute a perfect deke.
Mixing up your moves keeps the goalie guessing and gives you more opportunities to score goals.
Using The Between-The-Legs Shot As A Fake-Out Move
The between-the-legs shot is one of the most impressive moves that players can use in NHL 22. Not only is it visually stunning, but it can also be an effective way to fake out defenders and create openings to shoot on goal. If you’re wondering how to shoot between the legs in NHL 22 as a fake-out move, read on.
Faking Out Defenders With The Between-The-Legs Shot To Create Openings
One of the primary benefits of using the between-the-legs shot as a fake-out move is that it often catches defenders off-guard. When executed correctly, this move sends the puck flying through your legs and towards the net – all while avoiding potential stick-checks or body checks from opposing defenders.
Here’s how to execute the move: You’ll want to approach the defender with speed, and when you’re just a few feet away, pull back the right analog stick (or R3 button) to lift the puck up into the air. Next, quickly move the left analog stick downward and then upward to send the puck flying through your legs towards the net. If done fast enough, you should be able to get the goaltender moving and create some space for a quality scoring chance.
This move works best when used sparingly and unpredictably. Use it too often, and the defenders will start to anticipate it, making it far less likely to work effectively. However, using it once or twice per game can be an excellent way to keep them guessing and open up more shooting opportunities down the line.
Using The Between-The-Legs Shot As Part Of A Larger Feint To Confuse Defenders
In addition to using the between-the-legs shot as a standalone fake-out move, it can also be part of a larger feint to confuse defenders and create even more open space on the ice. Here’s how:
- Approach the defender head-on with speed.
- Suddenly veer off to the left or right side of the rink while pulling back the R3 button (or right analog stick) to lift the puck into the air.
- While maintaining possession of the puck, pass it from one hand to the other quickly (using L1/LB button).
- At this point, execute the between-the-legs shot towards the net, hoping to catch the goaltender off-guard and create a scoring chance.
This sequence requires some skill and practice to pull off reliably, but when done properly, it can be incredibly effective at keeping defenders guessing and creating high-quality shooting opportunities for you and your teammates. Just remember not to force the move if it doesn’t feel natural – relying too heavily on tricks like these can make you predictable and easier to defend against in the long run.
“The best players are those that can improvise and adapt to different situations on the ice. Using moves like the between-the-legs shot can help you keep defenders guessing and create more scoring chances.”, says former NHL player turned coach Ray Ferraro.
If you’re looking to take your game to the next level in NHL 22, incorporating the between-the-legs shot into your arsenal of moves is definitely worth considering. Practice the technique diligently until you become comfortable executing it at various points in a game, and don’t be afraid to experiment with using the move as part of larger sequences that can fool defenders and create key scoring opportunities over the course of a game.
Practicing The Shot In Training Mode To Improve Your Skills
If you want to learn how to shoot between the legs in NHL 22, practicing it in training mode is crucial for improvement. Whether youโre a beginner or an experienced player trying to perfect your technique, there are several drills and techniques you can use to increase your success rate.
Starting With Basic Drills To Build Your Foundation For The Shot
Before attempting any advanced shooting techniques such as shooting between the legs, itโs important to first build a strong foundation with basic drills. Here are some drills you can do:
- Stationary Shooting: This drill involves standing still and shooting towards a specific target point on the ice. It helps you focus on proper form and technique without distractions.
- Moving Targets: As the name suggests, this drill involves shooting at moving targets. It teaches you how to adjust your aim and timing based on the movement of the target.
- Backhand Shots: Backhand shots are an essential part of every hockey player’s arsenal. Practicing them regularly builds confidence in your ability to score from different angles and positions.
Moving On To More Advanced Drills To Refine Your Technique And Timing
Once youโve mastered the basics, itโs time to move on to more advanced drills that focus specifically on the between-the-legs shot. Here are some drills to help refine your technique and timing:
- Cutting Across The Ice: One way to create space for a between-the-legs shot is by cutting across the ice and using your body to shield the puck from defenders. Practice this maneuver by skating toward the net at full speed, then quickly cutting to your backhand side while keeping the puck between your legs.
- Stickhandling Through Cones: This drill helps you develop stickhandling skills, which are critical for executing a successful between-the-legs shot. Set up cones on the ice and practice weaving the puck through them using different moves such as toe drags and crossovers.
- Off-Ice Training: Donโt forget to incorporate off-ice training into your routine. Strengthening your core muscles and improving your balance will help you execute the shot with more power and accuracy.
Simulating Game Situations To Test Your Ability To Execute The Shot Under Pressure
No matter how much you practice in training mode, itโs not the same as performing under pressure during an actual game. To test your ability to execute the between-the-legs shot in game situations:
- Practice With A Partner: Have a teammate skate towards you and try to poke check the puck away while you attempt the between-the-legs shot. This simulates real-game pressure and helps you anticipate defensive movements better.
- 5-on-5 Scrimmages: Participating in scrimmages gives you an opportunity to practice the shot in live game situations and work on timing, spacing, and anticipating defendersโ actions.
- Coaches Challenges: Ask your coach to set up specific challenges that require you to use the between-the-legs shot, such as scoring against a goalie who is protecting the five-hole or backchecking forward.
Analyzing Your Performance And Making Adjustments To Improve Your Success Rate
To improve your performance over time, it’s important to analyze each shot you take and identify areas where you can make adjustments. Here are some tips:
- Watch Game Tape: Review game videos to see how defenders react when you attempt the between-the-legs shot. Use this information to anticipate their movements next time and fake them out with a different move.
- Solicit Feedback From Teammates And Coaches: Ask your teammates and coach for feedback on your performance, including what youโre doing right and where you can improve. Their objective perspective can help you identify weaknesses that you might have overlooked on your own.
- Work On Your Timing: As with any advanced technique, timing is crucial for executing it successfully. Practice your timing by changing speeds during rushes and focusing on when to release the puck while keeping it between your legs.
โThe key to success in any sport or endeavor is practice, practice, practice. So take every opportunity to get better and perfect your skills.โ – Wayne Gretzky
Shooting between the legs in NHL 22 requires practice and patience. Starting with basic drills will provide a solid foundation, then moving onto more advanced techniques, simulating game situations and analyzing your performance will help you refine your ability to execute the shot under pressure and improve your success rate over time. Remember to never give up, and always work hard to improve!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to position your player to shoot between the legs in NHL 22?
To position your player for the between-the-legs shot in NHL 22, make sure your player is skating towards your opponent’s net. As you approach the opponent, slow down and position your player to the side of their body. Then, angle your player’s stick towards the opponent’s legs and quickly press the shoot button.
How do you time your shot when attempting to shoot between the legs of an opponent in NHL 22?
The key to timing your shot for the between-the-legs move in NHL 22 is to wait until the last possible moment. As your player approaches the opponent, watch for any sign that they might move their stick or body to block your shot. When you see an opening, quickly press the shoot button and aim your shot between their legs.
What are some tips for successfully executing a backhand shot between the legs in NHL 22?
To execute the backhand shot between the legs in NHL 22, first, position your player to the side of the opponent’s body. Then, quickly move the right stick to the left or right to initiate the backhand shot animation. As the animation begins, angle your player’s stick towards the opponent’s legs and quickly press the shoot button. Practice timing and precision to perfect this move.
What are the benefits of shooting between the legs in NHL 22, and when should you attempt this type of shot?
The benefit of shooting between the legs in NHL 22 is that it can catch the goalie off guard and lead to a high-scoring opportunity. You should attempt this shot when the goalie is not in a good position to make a save or when you have a clear path to the net. However, it should not be your go-to move, as it is risky and can lead to turnovers if not executed properly.
Can shooting between the legs be used as a reliable scoring technique in NHL 22, or is it a more situational move?
Shooting between the legs can be a reliable scoring technique in NHL 22 if executed properly. However, it is a situational move that should only be attempted when you have a clear opportunity to score. It should not be relied on heavily, as it is a risky move that can result in turnovers if not timed correctly. Practice it and use it sparingly to keep your opponents guessing.