What Does Bottom 6 Mean in Hockey? Find Out Here!

Hockey is a sport that is widely recognized for its fast-paced action and physicality. However, one aspect of the game that often goes unnoticed by casual fans is the importance of the “bottom 6” players on a team. So, what does bottom 6 mean in hockey, and why is it important? In this article, we will take a closer look at this term and its significance in the game of hockey.

Before we dive into the details of what bottom 6 means, it is important to understand the basics of hockey positions. Each team has six players on the ice, with three forwards, two defensemen, and a goaltender. The top two forward lines are typically composed of the most skilled and offensive-minded players, while the bottom two lines are made up of players who may not have the same level of skill but are crucial to a team’s success nonetheless.

So, why do coaches and analysts place so much emphasis on the bottom 6? In short, these players are responsible for providing energy, physicality, and defensive stability to their teams. They may not score as many goals or make as many highlight-reel plays, but they play an essential role in winning games. Keep reading to find out more about the role of bottom 6 players in hockey and how they contribute to their team’s success.

If you want to learn more about the importance of bottom 6 players in hockey, and how they can make or break a team’s success, keep reading. We will break down the role of these players, look at some key stats and performance metrics, and examine examples of successful bottom 6 lines in NHL history. Let’s get started!

Understanding the Basics of Hockey Positions

If you’re new to hockey, it can be challenging to understand the various positions on the ice. Each position has its unique responsibilities and requires different skills. Here are some of the primary positions in hockey:

Forwards: The forwards are responsible for scoring goals and generating offensive plays. There are three types of forwards: centers, left wingers, and right wingers. Centers are typically the most versatile of the three and are responsible for winning faceoffs, while left and right wingers are responsible for creating offensive opportunities on the sides of the ice.

Defensemen: Defensemen are responsible for protecting their team’s goal and preventing the opposing team from scoring. They also help transition the puck from defense to offense. There are two types of defensemen: left defensemen and right defensemen.

Goalies: The goalies are the last line of defense and are responsible for stopping the opposing team’s shots. They wear specialized equipment, including a mask, chest protector, leg pads, and blocker and glove.

Special Teams: Special teams refer to the power play and penalty kill units. During a power play, a team has an extra player on the ice due to a penalty called against the opposing team. Conversely, during a penalty kill, a team is down a player due to a penalty called against them. The players on the ice during these situations have specialized roles and responsibilities.

Understanding the basics of hockey positions is crucial in understanding how a team operates on the ice. Keep reading to learn more about the unique term “Bottom 6” and how it plays a vital role in the game of hockey!

What Are the Different Positions in Hockey?

• Center: Also known as the “pivot”, centers play a versatile role on the ice and are responsible for both offensive and defensive duties. They typically take faceoffs and are the playmakers of the team.
• Winger: There are two types of wingers: left and right. Wingers are primarily responsible for scoring goals and assisting their teammates in doing so. They also play a role in defending the opposing team’s wingers.
• Defenseman: Typically referred to as “D-men”, these players are responsible for defending their team’s goal and stopping the opposing team from scoring. They also assist their team’s forwards in generating offense.
• Goalie: Also known as the goaltender or netminder, the goalie is the last line of defense and plays a crucial role in preventing the opposing team from scoring.

Understanding the different positions in hockey is important in order to appreciate the complexity and teamwork involved in the game. Each position has its own unique set of responsibilities and requires specific skills and abilities.

How Are Players Assigned to Positions?

In hockey, coaches generally assign players to positions based on their strengths, skills, and experience. For example, players who are fast and have good stickhandling skills may be assigned to play forward positions, while those who are strong skaters and defenders may be assigned to play defense.

However, players are not always limited to one position. Some players have the versatility to play multiple positions and can be moved around as needed. This can be helpful for coaches when making strategic decisions or if a team is dealing with injuries.

Younger players who are just starting out may also be assigned to different positions to help them develop a well-rounded skillset. As players progress through their careers, they may specialize in a specific position or continue to play multiple positions.

Ultimately, the assignment of positions is up to the coach and can vary depending on the team’s needs, player performance, and game situations.

What Are the Key Responsibilities of Each Position?

Centers: Centers are the forwards who start play in the middle of the ice. They are responsible for taking faceoffs and leading offensive plays. They also need to support the defensemen and backcheck to help prevent the opposing team from scoring.

Wingers: Wingers play on the left and right sides of the center. Their main responsibilities are to create scoring opportunities by getting into positions to receive passes and taking shots on goal. They also need to provide defensive support when needed.

Defensemen: Defensemen are responsible for guarding the team’s own net and preventing the opposing team from scoring. They also need to make outlet passes to start offensive plays and support the forwards in the offensive zone.

Goalies: Goalies are the last line of defense and are responsible for stopping the puck from going into their own net. They need to be quick and agile and have good hand-eye coordination. They also need to communicate with their defensemen to effectively defend the net.

Why is the Term “Bottom 6” Used?

Origins of the Term: The term “bottom 6” is commonly used in hockey to describe the team’s third and fourth lines. It refers to the six forwards on these lines, who are typically less skilled and play less minutes than their top-six counterparts.

Importance of the Bottom 6: Although these players may not be the stars of the team, they play a crucial role in contributing to the team’s success. They are often tasked with defensive responsibilities and providing energy and physicality on the ice.

Usage Across the NHL: The term “bottom 6” is used throughout the NHL, and has become a part of the hockey lexicon. Coaches, players, and fans alike use the term to discuss and analyze the play of these key contributors.

Significance to Team Building: Building a successful team in hockey requires a balance of talent across all lines, including the bottom Teams that neglect their bottom 6 players can find themselves at a disadvantage, as they lack the depth necessary to compete at a high level.

Evolution of the Term: As the game of hockey continues to evolve, so too does the role of the bottom While the term may have originally been used to describe less-skilled players, modern bottom 6 players are often highly skilled in their own right and play an important role in their team’s success.

What Is the Origin of the Term “Bottom 6”?

The term “Bottom 6” refers to the fourth line of forwards on a hockey team. But why is it called “Bottom 6”?

One theory is that the term comes from the salary hierarchy of NHL players. The highest-paid players are typically the top 6 forwards, while the lower-paid players make up the bottom Another theory is that it refers to the depth chart, with the top 6 being the most skilled and the bottom 6 being less so.

Regardless of its origin, the term “Bottom 6” has become a common way to refer to the fourth line of forwards in hockey.

It’s worth noting that not all teams use the same terminology. Some refer to their lines by number, while others may use different labels entirely.

The Role of Bottom 6 Players in Hockey

While the top six forwards in hockey typically receive the most attention and play the most minutes, the bottom 6 players play an important role on the team as well. These players are often referred to as the team’s “grinders” or “energy players,” as they focus on providing physicality and energy to the game.

Bottom 6 players often have specific roles, such as penalty killing or playing on the fourth line, and are crucial in shutting down the opposing team’s offense. They may not score as many goals or get as much ice time as the top six players, but their contributions are invaluable to the team’s success.

One of the key attributes of a successful bottom 6 player is versatility. They must be able to play multiple positions and adapt to different situations on the ice. Bottom 6 players are also known for their grit and determination, as they often have to fight hard for their ice time and prove their value to the team.

Another important aspect of the bottom 6 player’s role is providing leadership and mentorship to younger players on the team. Many bottom 6 players have years of experience and can help guide and develop the team’s up-and-coming talent.

Overall, while the top six players may get the glory, the bottom 6 players are essential to any successful hockey team. Their physicality, versatility, grit, determination, and leadership all contribute to the team’s overall success on the ice.

What Are Bottom 6 Players?

Bottom 6 players are those players who typically play on the third and fourth lines of a hockey team. These players are usually not as highly skilled as those who play on the first and second lines, but they still play an important role on the team.

Bottom 6 players are known for their physicality and grit on the ice. They are often responsible for penalty killing and defensive play, and are relied upon to be strong on the forecheck and to win battles along the boards.

Bottom 6 players are also important for their energy and momentum on the ice. They are expected to bring a high level of intensity to the game and to set the tone for their team with their hard work and physical play.

Overall, while bottom 6 players may not receive as much attention or recognition as those on the top two lines, their contributions are crucial to the success of a hockey team.

What Are the Key Characteristics of Bottom 6 Players?

Physicality: Bottom 6 players are known for their physicality and toughness. They are not afraid to throw their weight around and deliver big hits on opponents.

Defensive-mindedness: Bottom 6 players are often tasked with playing a defensive role on their team. They are responsible for shutting down the opposition’s top lines and preventing them from scoring.

Versatility: Bottom 6 players are typically versatile and can play multiple positions. They may be asked to play center or wing and can also play on the penalty kill or power play.

Aggressiveness: Bottom 6 players must have an aggressive mindset and be willing to battle for the puck in the corners and along the boards. They are often the players who create scoring chances through their hard work and persistence.

How Do Bottom 6 Players Contribute to the Overall Strategy of a Hockey Team?

• Defensive responsibility: One of the primary roles of Bottom 6 players is to provide defensive stability and support to their team. They are tasked with shutting down opposing players, blocking shots, and disrupting plays in the defensive zone.

• Energy and physicality: Bottom 6 players are known for their physicality, grit, and energy. They are expected to finish their checks, win battles along the boards, and bring energy to the team, both on and off the ice.

• Special teams play: Many Bottom 6 players are key contributors on the penalty kill, as they excel in defensive situations and are willing to sacrifice their bodies to block shots. They also provide depth on the power play and can contribute in a variety of ways, such as screening the goaltender or retrieving pucks.

• Leadership: Despite being typically younger and less experienced than their top-line counterparts, Bottom 6 players can still provide leadership and guidance to their team. They often serve as alternate captains or provide vocal support from the bench to motivate their teammates.

Bottom 6 players may not always get the same recognition or glory as their more offensively-minded teammates, but they are crucial to a team’s success. They provide depth, stability, and energy to their team, allowing the top lines to focus on scoring and offensive play. Additionally, the ability to roll out multiple lines and have each one contribute in different ways can wear down the opposition and provide a strategic advantage.

Stats and Performance Metrics for Bottom 6 Players

Statistics are used extensively in hockey to measure player performance. However, traditional stats like goals and assists don’t necessarily capture the contributions of bottom 6 players. Therefore, advanced statistics have been developed to evaluate the performance of these players.

Corsi and Fenwick are two popular advanced metrics used to measure possession in hockey. These stats measure the number of shots taken while a player is on the ice, compared to the number of shots taken against. Bottom 6 players typically have lower Corsi and Fenwick numbers than top-line players, as they often play a more defensive role.

However, other metrics like defensive zone starts, blocked shots, hits, and penalty kill success rate can be used to evaluate the performance of bottom 6 players. These players are often relied upon to play a strong defensive game and contribute to penalty killing, which can be measured through these performance metrics.

What Are the Key Stats Used to Evaluate Bottom 6 Players?

When evaluating the performance of bottom 6 players in hockey, there are several key stats that teams and analysts look at:

Points per 60 Minutes (P/60): This stat measures the number of points a player scores per 60 minutes of ice time. It’s used to evaluate a player’s offensive production and contribution to the team’s scoring.

Corsi For Percentage (CF%): This is a possession stat that measures the percentage of shot attempts (including missed and blocked shots) that a team takes while a player is on the ice. A higher CF% indicates that a player is helping his team control the puck and generate scoring opportunities.

Penalty Kill Percentage (PK%): Bottom 6 players are often used on the penalty kill, so their effectiveness in this area is important. PK% measures the percentage of penalties a team successfully kills off while a player is on the ice. A higher PK% indicates that a player is a strong penalty killer and helps his team prevent goals against.

Hits: Hits measure the number of times a player makes body contact with an opponent. This stat is used to evaluate a player’s physicality and ability to win battles along the boards and in front of the net. It can also indicate a player’s willingness to sacrifice his body for the team.

How Bottom 6 Players Contribute to the Success of a Hockey Team

Providing depth: Bottom 6 players provide depth to a team’s lineup, ensuring that there are strong players throughout the roster. This makes it difficult for opponents to focus on shutting down just one or two lines, making the team more versatile.

Special teams: Bottom 6 players often play key roles on the penalty kill and power play units. They are typically responsible for winning faceoffs, blocking shots, and maintaining possession of the puck, which are crucial elements of special teams play.

Defensive responsibility: Bottom 6 players are often tasked with playing a defensive role and shutting down the opposition’s top players. This requires a high level of defensive responsibility, discipline, and strong positional play.

Energy and physical play: Bottom 6 players are often known for their physical play and ability to energize their team with big hits, fights, and aggressive play. This can help shift the momentum of the game in their team’s favor and can demoralize the opposition.

Leadership: Bottom 6 players are often veterans who provide leadership and guidance to younger players on the team. They may not be the top scorers, but their experience and leadership can be invaluable in a high-pressure playoff situation.

What Are Some Examples of Bottom 6 Players Making a Difference in Key Moments?

Scoring a Game-Winning Goal: While the stars often get the glory, it’s not uncommon for a bottom 6 player to score a game-winning goal. In the 2019 Stanley Cup playoffs, Dallas Stars’ bottom 6 forward Joel Kiviranta scored a hat-trick in a crucial Game 7 to help his team advance to the next round.

Killing Penalties: Bottom 6 players are often relied upon to kill penalties, as they typically possess strong defensive skills and the ability to block shots. In Game 7 of the 2021 NHL playoffs, Montreal Canadiens’ forward Jake Evans, a bottom 6 player, scored a shorthanded, game-winning goal in overtime to eliminate the heavily-favored Toronto Maple Leafs.

Providing a Spark: Bottom 6 players are known for their physical play and ability to energize their team. In the 2018 Stanley Cup playoffs, Washington Capitals’ forward Devante Smith-Pelly, a bottom 6 player, scored seven goals in 24 games, including a critical game-tying goal in Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Final.

Examples of Successful Bottom 6 Lines in NHL History

Energy, grit, and depth: The “Grind Line” of the Detroit Red Wings in the late 1990s consisted of Kris Draper, Joe Kocur, and Darren McCarty. This line provided physicality and energy while also contributing offensively, helping the Red Wings win three Stanley Cups in six years.

Two-way prowess: The “Merkley-Methot-McGrattan” line of the Ottawa Senators in the early 2010s featured Jesse Winchester, Marc Methot, and Brian McGrattan. This line was a shutdown unit that played tough minutes against top opponents and helped the Senators make the playoffs in 2012.

Speed and skill: The “HBK Line” of the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2016 consisted of Carl Hagelin, Nick Bonino, and Phil Kessel. This line provided speed and skill while also playing responsible defense and contributed 56 points in 24 playoff games en route to winning the Stanley Cup.

Physicality and scoring: The “Crash Line” of the Boston Bruins in the late 1990s featured P.J. Axelsson, Shawn McEachern, and Tim Taylor. This line provided physicality and energy while also contributing offensively, helping the Bruins reach the playoffs in three consecutive seasons.

Aggressiveness and tenacity: The “Dog Line” of the Montreal Canadiens in the 1940s consisted of Murdo MacKay, Buddy O’Connor, and Bob Fillion. This line was known for its aggressive and tenacious play and helped the Canadiens win two Stanley Cups in 1944 and 1946.

What Are Some of the Most Famous Bottom 6 Lines in NHL History?

There have been many successful bottom 6 lines throughout NHL history, but some of the most famous ones include:

1. The Grind Line: This line consisted of Kris Draper, Kirk Maltby, and Darren McCarty of the Detroit Red Wings. They were known for their defensive prowess and physical play, and were instrumental in helping the Red Wings win three Stanley Cups in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
2. The Crash Line: Comprised of Greg Adams, Dave Lowry, and Gino Odjick of the Vancouver Canucks, this line played a key role in the team’s run to the 1994 Stanley Cup Finals. They were known for their hard-hitting style and ability to wear down opponents.
3. The Merlot Line: This line of Daniel Paille, Shawn Thornton, and Gregory Campbell played for the Boston Bruins and was named after the team’s dark red jerseys. They were known for their physical play and ability to chip in offensively, and helped the Bruins win the Stanley Cup in 2011.
4. The Energy Line: Composed of Jay Pandolfo, John Madden, and Mike Rupp, this line of the New Jersey Devils played a key role in their 2003 Stanley Cup victory. They were known for their speed and tenacity, and were often relied upon to provide a spark when the team needed it most.

These bottom 6 lines may not have received as much attention as the star players, but their contributions were just as important in helping their teams achieve success.

Frequently Asked Questions