The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Backdoor in Hockey

Welcome to the ultimate guide to understanding backdoor in hockey. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a new fan, backdoor plays are a crucial aspect of the game that you need to comprehend to elevate your knowledge and enjoyment of the sport. In this article, we will delve into the meaning of backdoor in hockey, how to create and defend against backdoor plays, the best situations to use them, and much more.

Backdoor is a term that refers to a play where an offensive player sneaks behind the defense and receives a pass for an easy shot at the goal. A successful backdoor play can catch the opposing team off guard and turn the momentum of the game in the favor of the attacking team. However, defending against backdoor plays can be just as crucial to prevent a scoring opportunity for the opposition.

In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about backdoor plays in hockey. From the basics of what a backdoor goal is, to the most effective ways to create and defend against them, this article will be your go-to resource for understanding this critical element of the game.

So, whether you’re a player, coach, or fan, keep reading to learn more about backdoor in hockey and take your understanding of the game to the next level.

What is a Backdoor Goal in Hockey?

Hockey is a game of speed, skill, and strategy. One of the most effective strategies is the backdoor play, which can lead to a backdoor goal. A backdoor goal is a goal scored by a player who positions themselves near the opponent’s goal line, behind the defense, and receives a pass for an easy shot into the open net. The player can either tap the puck into the net or shoot it into the net.

The key to a successful backdoor goal is to have the player in the right position at the right time. The player must be ready to receive the pass and make a quick shot. The pass must be accurate and quick, so the player can get the shot off before the goaltender can react.

Backdoor goals are often scored during power plays, where the opposing team is short-handed. The team on the power play can use the extra space to create more scoring opportunities and set up the backdoor play.

The Definition of Backdoor Goal in Hockey

A backdoor goal in hockey is a scoring play where an offensive player positions themselves behind the net and receives a pass from a teammate, either through the slot or from the corner, and scores while the goaltender is out of position. The backdoor play is a high-percentage scoring chance, as it takes advantage of the goalie’s inability to cover the entire net simultaneously.

The term backdoor comes from the idea that the player sneaks in behind the defense, creating an open opportunity for the pass and shot. This play requires quick thinking and good communication between teammates. The player who scores the backdoor goal is often referred to as a “backdoor specialist.”

Backdoor goals can be a game-changer, especially in tight games, as they often catch the opposing team off guard and can turn the momentum in favor of the scoring team. They are also a great way to reward players who work hard to get into scoring positions and have a good sense of timing and anticipation.

Examples of Backdoor Goals in Hockey

Now that you have a basic understanding of what a backdoor goal is in hockey, let’s take a look at some examples of this play in action. Here are a few memorable backdoor goals that highlight the importance of this strategy:

1. Sidney Crosby’s Game-Winning Goal in the 2016 Stanley Cup Finals: In Game 2 of the 2016 Stanley Cup Finals, Sidney Crosby scored the game-winning goal with a perfect backdoor play. With the score tied 1-1 in the third period, Crosby found himself open on the backdoor and buried a perfect pass from teammate Conor Sheary to give the Penguins a 2-1 lead. The goal proved to be the game-winner and helped the Penguins go on to win the Stanley Cup.
2. Mike Modano’s Backdoor Goal in the 1999 Stanley Cup Finals: In Game 6 of the 1999 Stanley Cup Finals, Mike Modano scored a memorable backdoor goal to help the Dallas Stars clinch the championship. With the game tied 1-1 in the second period, Modano received a pass from Brett Hull on the backdoor and buried it past Buffalo Sabres goaltender Dominik Hasek to give the Stars a 2-1 lead. The goal proved to be the game-winner and gave the Stars their first-ever Stanley Cup.
3. Alex Ovechkin’s Backdoor Goal in the 2018 Stanley Cup Finals: In Game 5 of the 2018 Stanley Cup Finals, Alex Ovechkin scored a crucial backdoor goal to help the Washington Capitals win their first-ever championship. With the score tied 3-3 in the second period, Ovechkin found himself open on the backdoor and buried a pass from teammate Michal Kempny to give the Capitals a 4-3 lead. The goal proved to be the game-winner and helped the Capitals clinch the Stanley Cup.
4. Patrick Kane’s Backdoor Goal in the 2010 Stanley Cup Finals: In Game 6 of the 2010 Stanley Cup Finals, Patrick Kane scored a dramatic backdoor goal to help the Chicago Blackhawks win their first championship in 49 years. With the score tied 3-3 in overtime, Kane found himself open on the backdoor and buried a perfect pass from teammate Brian Campbell to give the Blackhawks a 4-3 victory and the Stanley Cup.

These examples demonstrate the importance of the backdoor play in hockey and how it can lead to some of the most memorable goals in the sport’s history.

The Role of a Backdoor Pass in Scoring Goals

Column 1	Column 2	Column 3
Timing	Accuracy	Decision-making
A well-timed backdoor pass is crucial in creating a scoring opportunity in ice hockey. The offensive player needs to time their movement perfectly to arrive at the backdoor area just as the pass arrives. If the player moves too early or too late, the opportunity is lost, and the pass could be intercepted by the opposing team’s defense. Therefore, timing is one of the most critical factors in executing a successful backdoor pass.	Accuracy is another critical aspect of a successful backdoor pass. The player making the pass needs to be able to accurately place the puck in the area where the offensive player is headed. A pass that is too far in front or behind the player can result in a missed opportunity, while a pass that is too high or too low can be difficult to control. Therefore, the player making the pass needs to have excellent passing skills and be able to execute the pass with precision.	Finally, the decision-making skills of the players involved are essential in executing a successful backdoor pass. The offensive player needs to recognize the opportunity to move to the backdoor area and make their move at the right time. The player making the pass needs to assess the situation quickly and decide whether the backdoor pass is the best option or if another play should be made. The decision-making skills of the players involved can be the difference between a scoring opportunity and a missed chance.
Timing, accuracy, and decision-making are all crucial factors in executing a successful backdoor pass in ice hockey. When done correctly, the backdoor pass can create a scoring opportunity that can turn the game in favor of the offensive team. Therefore, mastering the backdoor pass is an essential skill for any player looking to make an impact on the ice.	By understanding the role of timing, accuracy, and decision-making, players can work on developing these skills to execute successful backdoor passes consistently. Through practice and repetition, players can fine-tune their abilities and become a valuable asset to their team, contributing to their success on the ice.	In conclusion, the backdoor pass plays a significant role in scoring goals in ice hockey. It requires precision, timing, and quick decision-making to execute successfully. By mastering this skill, players can increase their chances of creating scoring opportunities and contributing to their team’s success.

How to Create a Backdoor Play in Hockey?

Backdoor plays in hockey are a strategic move that can lead to easy goals. The key to executing a successful backdoor play is coordination and communication. Here are some steps to create a backdoor play:

Step 1: Start with your strongest puck handler in control of the puck. This player should be able to draw defenders towards them.

Step 2: Have a player positioned in front of the net, ready to receive the puck. This player should be quick on their feet and have good hand-eye coordination.

Step 3: Position a player near the blue line to act as a passer. This player should be able to make accurate, quick passes to the player in front of the net.

Step 4: The player with the puck should draw defenders towards them and then quickly pass the puck to the player in front of the net. The player in front of the net should then quickly shoot the puck into the goal.

It’s important to note that backdoor plays require practice and timing. It’s essential that players work together to execute the play effectively. Keep practicing until it becomes second nature.

Another essential part of creating a backdoor play is deception. By creating confusion among the defenders, the player in front of the net can get an open shot. One way to deceive defenders is by faking a shot and then quickly passing the puck to the player in front of the net.

When creating a backdoor play, it’s important to be patient and wait for the right moment. Don’t force the play if it’s not there. Instead, be patient and look for the opportunity to present itself.

Finally, communication is key. Players should be talking to each other throughout the game, letting each other know when a backdoor play is possible. By communicating effectively, players can execute the play more efficiently.

The Importance of Proper Timing and Positioning in a Backdoor Play

In hockey, executing a backdoor play requires precise timing and positioning to be successful. Players must work together seamlessly, anticipating each other’s moves and positioning themselves accordingly to make the play.

Timing is critical when attempting a backdoor play. Players need to time their passes and movements with the precision of a Swiss watch. If the pass is too early or too late, the chance of scoring decreases significantly. Therefore, players must work on their timing during training to perfect the execution of a backdoor play in a game situation.

Positioning is equally important in a backdoor play. The player attempting to score needs to be in the right position to receive the pass and take the shot. Meanwhile, the passer needs to be in the perfect position to deliver the puck accurately to the intended target. Additionally, other players need to maintain proper positioning to avoid getting in the way and creating traffic in front of the net.

Another critical aspect of positioning is reading the play. Players need to be aware of their surroundings and anticipate where the play is headed. This allows them to adjust their positioning accordingly and be ready to execute the backdoor play.

Finally, communication is key in a backdoor play. Players must communicate with each other to let their teammates know where they are, where they are going, and what they plan to do. This ensures that everyone is on the same page and can execute the play seamlessly.

What are the Best Situations to Use Backdoor in Hockey?

Understanding when to use the backdoor play is crucial to executing it successfully. One situation where the backdoor can be effective is during a power play when the defending team is down a player. This is because the backdoor play requires quick passes and high mobility, which can be difficult to achieve when both teams are at full strength. Timing is key in executing the backdoor play.

Another situation where the backdoor play can be useful is when the attacking team has a player behind the net. This player can draw defenders towards them, creating space for the attacking team to execute the backdoor play. Positioning is crucial in this scenario, as the attacking players need to be in the right place at the right time to receive the pass.

The backdoor play can also be effective when the defending team is focused on the puck carrier. This can create opportunities for the attacking team to quickly move the puck and execute the backdoor play. However, this requires excellent communication between the attacking players to ensure they are on the same page.

Another situation where the backdoor play can be useful is when the attacking team has a fast skater who can quickly move the puck up the ice. The speed of the attacker can create opportunities to execute the backdoor play before the defending team can adjust their positioning. Vision is key in this scenario, as the attacking player needs to be aware of their surroundings and quickly identify opportunities to execute the play.

Finally, the backdoor play can be effective in situations where the attacking team is struggling to score against a particularly strong goaltender. The backdoor play can create opportunities to shoot the puck from a different angle, catching the goaltender off guard. Creativity is essential in this scenario, as the attacking team needs to think outside the box to create scoring opportunities.

Power Plays and Odd-Man Rushes

One of the best situations to use a backdoor play is during a power play. When a team has a power play, they have an extra player on the ice due to a penalty. This gives them a numerical advantage over the other team, making it easier to execute a backdoor play and score a goal.

Another great situation for a backdoor play is during an odd-man rush. An odd-man rush occurs when a team has more players attacking than the defending team has on the ice. This situation allows for more open ice and creates more opportunities for a backdoor pass.

During a power play or odd-man rush, players need to be in the right positioning to execute a backdoor play successfully. The player with the puck needs to draw the defense towards them, creating an opening for the backdoor pass. The player receiving the backdoor pass needs to be in the right position to redirect the puck into the net.

The key to executing a successful backdoor play during a power play or odd-man rush is timing. Players need to move the puck quickly and make smart, fast decisions to catch the defense off guard. Waiting too long to make the pass or shooting too early can lead to missed opportunities.

When executing a backdoor play during a power play or odd-man rush, it’s essential to have a clear communication plan. Players need to know where their teammates are on the ice and be able to make quick decisions based on their movements. Clear communication helps players anticipate where the backdoor pass will go and be ready to capitalize on the opportunity.

How to Defend Against a Backdoor Play in Hockey?

Anticipate the play: As a defender, you need to be aware of the offensive team’s strategies and anticipate a backdoor play. Look for the cues like the forward positioning or the puck carrier’s body language to predict the play.

Block the passing lanes: When you anticipate a backdoor play, you must block the passing lanes that lead to the open player. Position yourself between the puck carrier and the intended target and use your stick to disrupt the pass.

Take away the open space: Backdoor plays require open spaces near the net. As a defender, you must take away the space from the attacking player and prevent them from making a shot or receiving a pass.

Use physicality: Backdoor plays often rely on timing and precision, and defenders can disrupt these plays by using their physicality. Use body positioning and legal checks to disrupt the timing and flow of the play.

Communication: Communication is crucial in defending against backdoor plays. Make sure to communicate with your teammates and let them know when you are taking over a specific defensive assignment. Clear and concise communication can prevent confusion and ensure that everyone is on the same page.

The Role of the Defensemen in Defending Against Backdoor Plays

Positioning: One of the key responsibilities of the defensemen is to maintain proper positioning when defending against backdoor plays. They need to keep an eye on the opposing team’s forwards and be aware of their movements to anticipate any potential backdoor plays.

Stick Placement: The defensemen need to use their sticks effectively to block passing lanes and disrupt the opposition’s plays. They should be able to get their sticks in the way of any passes towards the backdoor area to prevent easy scoring opportunities.

Communication: Communication between the defensemen and the goaltender is crucial in defending against backdoor plays. They need to be constantly talking to each other, calling out the movements of the opposition, and ensuring that everyone is on the same page to defend against any potential threats.

How to Cut Off Passing Lanes to the Backdoor Player

Stick Placement: The first step in cutting off passing lanes to the backdoor player is to position your stick in the passing lane to take away the option. Be sure to keep your stick on the ice and in the passing lane.

Body Positioning: The second step is to position your body between the passer and the backdoor player. This will make it more difficult for the passer to get a clear passing lane to the backdoor player.

Anticipation: The third step is to anticipate where the pass might go and move to that area. By reading the play and anticipating the pass, you can cut off the passing lane to the backdoor player.

Communication: The final step is to communicate with your teammates. Make sure everyone is aware of the backdoor player and the potential passing lanes. Communication can help cut off the passing lane and prevent the backdoor play from happening.

Why is Backdoor an Important Element of Hockey Strategy?

Scoring Opportunities: A backdoor play can create a prime scoring opportunity that can be difficult for the opposing team to defend against.

Exploiting Weaknesses: A well-executed backdoor play can exploit weaknesses in the opposing team’s defense, allowing for strategic advantages.

Creativity: Incorporating backdoor plays into a team’s strategy adds a layer of creativity and unpredictability to their offensive game, making it more difficult for the opposing team to anticipate and defend against their plays.

Exploiting Defensive Gaps and Creating Scoring Opportunities

Backdoor plays are a potent way of taking advantage of defensive gaps in hockey. By drawing the defenders out of position and creating space near the goal crease, the offense can generate high-percentage scoring opportunities.

With the emphasis on speed and skill in modern hockey, teams are always looking for new ways to create offense. The backdoor play has become an essential element of this strategy, as it forces defenders to make tough decisions and creates confusion in the defensive zone.

By using the backdoor play effectively, teams can shift the balance of power in their favor and put pressure on the opposition’s defense. This can lead to more goals, more wins, and ultimately, more success on the ice.

Forcing Opposing Team to Alter Their Defensive Strategy

One of the main advantages of incorporating backdoor plays into a team’s offensive strategy is that it forces the opposing team to adjust their defensive strategy. Defensive players are forced to be more aware of the backdoor play and must adjust their positioning accordingly.

This adjustment can lead to gaps in their defensive coverage, which can be exploited by the offensive team. By incorporating backdoor plays into the offensive strategy, teams can create confusion and openings in the opposing team’s defensive structure.

Additionally, the opposing team may become more focused on preventing backdoor plays, which can create opportunities for other types of offensive plays, such as shots from the point or wraparounds.

In summary, incorporating backdoor plays into an offensive strategy can force the opposing team to adjust their defensive strategy, creating opportunities for the offensive team to exploit gaps in their defensive coverage and potentially leading to increased offensive success.

Backdoor or One-Timer: Which is More Effective in Hockey?

Two of the most effective ways to score goals in hockey are through the backdoor play and the one-timer. While both methods have their own advantages and disadvantages, it ultimately depends on the situation and the skills of the players involved.

Backdoor plays require precise timing and positioning, as well as quick passing and excellent hand-eye coordination. When executed correctly, they can catch the opposing goalie off guard and result in easy tap-in goals. However, they can also be easily defended against if the defensemen are aware of the play and cut off the passing lanes.

On the other hand, one-timers rely on the shooter’s ability to release the puck quickly and accurately, as well as the passer’s ability to make a perfect pass. They are especially effective during power plays or when the opposing team is caught in a defensive breakdown. However, they require more space and time to set up compared to backdoor plays.

Ultimately, the effectiveness of both plays depends on the team’s strengths and weaknesses, as well as the opponent’s defensive strategy. A team with strong puck movement and passing skills may find success with backdoor plays, while a team with strong shooters and passers may prefer one-timers.

It’s also important to note that both plays can be used in combination with each other to keep the defensemen guessing and create scoring opportunities. A successful power play, for example, may involve a combination of both backdoor plays and one-timers to keep the opposing team on their toes.

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Each Strategy

One-timer: The one-timer shot is a quick release that can catch goalies off guard. It requires precise passing and excellent timing. It is an effective strategy when a player is set up in a prime scoring area and has a clear shooting lane. However, the one-timer can be predictable, and a good goalie will be ready for it. It also requires a high level of skill and coordination among players.

Backdoor: The backdoor play can be an effective strategy because it often leads to an open net. It requires quick and precise passing, and the ability to recognize when the defense is out of position. It can be difficult to defend against because the goalie may be caught out of position, and the opposing team can take advantage of the gap in coverage. However, the backdoor play requires players to have excellent vision and awareness, as well as the ability to make quick decisions under pressure.

Advantages of one-timers: Quick release, catches goalies off guard, effective when executed properly, can create rebounds.

Disadvantages of one-timers: Can be predictable, requires high skill level and coordination, can be difficult to set up, and relies heavily on precise passing.

Advantages of backdoor plays: Can lead to open nets, difficult to defend against, can catch goalies off guard, can create scoring opportunities in tight spaces.

Disadvantages of backdoor plays: Requires excellent vision and awareness, can be difficult to execute under pressure, requires precise passing, and can leave the defense vulnerable if not executed properly.

Frequently Asked Questions