What Does Handedness Mean in Hockey? Find Out Here


Sharing is Caring


Are you a fan of hockey? If so, you may have heard the term handedness before. But what exactly does handedness mean in the context of hockey, and how does it impact the game? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at this important aspect of the sport and explore its various implications.

First, let’s define what we mean by handedness in hockey. Put simply, handedness refers to whether a player shoots left-handed or right-handed. While this may seem like a relatively minor detail, it can have a significant impact on a player’s performance on the ice, as well as on team strategies and gameplay.

In this article, we’ll dive deeper into the topic of handedness and its effects on the game of hockey. From the differences between left-handed and right-handed players, to the impact of handedness on player positions, to tips for determining your own handedness, we’ll cover all the essentials. So keep reading to find out everything you need to know about what handedness means in hockey!

If you’re a hockey player or just a fan of the sport, you won’t want to miss this comprehensive guide to handedness in hockey. Whether you’re curious about the technical aspects of the game or simply want to gain a deeper understanding of the sport you love, this article has something for everyone. So, let’s get started!

Left-Handed vs. Right-Handed Players

In hockey, one’s handedness can play a crucial role in the game. Handedness refers to the dominant hand a player uses to hold their stick, which can be either left or right. This distinction impacts not only the way a player plays, but also how their opponent defends against them. Left-handed players, for example, may have an advantage over their right-handed counterparts because they hold their stick on the opposite side, which can create a unique angle when shooting or passing the puck.

However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that right-handed players are at a disadvantage. Many of the best players in the world are right-handed, and some even argue that it’s easier to find equipment for right-handed players. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the individual player.

Interestingly, the percentage of left-handed players in hockey is higher than in many other sports, with estimates ranging from 30-50% in the NHL. This is in contrast to the general population, where only about 10% of people are left-handed. Some theories suggest that this is because left-handed players have a slight advantage due to their rarity, making them less predictable and harder for opponents to defend against.

Despite these differences, the reality is that both left-handed and right-handed players can excel in hockey. It all comes down to skill, strategy, and practice. Coaches should focus on developing their players’ strengths, regardless of their handedness, and helping them improve their weaknesses.

The Definition and Characteristics of Left-Handed and Right-Handed Players

Left-Handed Players Right-Handed Players
Definition Left-handed players shoot with their left hand on top of the stick and hold the stick with their right hand lower down on the shaft. Right-handed players shoot with their right hand on top of the stick and hold the stick with their left hand lower down on the shaft.
Characteristics Left-handed players tend to have an advantage in stickhandling and passing due to the positioning of their dominant hand at the top of the stick. Right-handed players tend to have an advantage in shooting due to the positioning of their dominant hand at the bottom of the stick.
Popularity Left-handed players make up about 30% of NHL players, but the number varies across different leagues. Right-handed players make up about 70% of NHL players, but the number varies across different leagues.
Adaptation Left-handed players may have difficulty finding suitable equipment and have to adapt to playing in a right-handed world. Right-handed players may have an advantage in finding equipment and not have to make as many adaptations.

Understanding the characteristics of left-handed and right-handed players is crucial in the game of hockey. It affects their playstyle, position on the ice, and even the equipment they use. Knowing which hand a player uses to shoot can help the opposing team predict their movements and strategy. It also helps coaches and scouts determine which players will fit best in certain positions. Keep reading to learn why handedness matters in hockey and how it can impact players and the game as a whole.

Left-Handed and Right-Handed Players’ Strengths and Weaknesses

While left-handed players are often thought to have an advantage in hockey due to their rarity and element of surprise, it’s not that simple. Right-handed players also have their own strengths and weaknesses that can make them just as valuable on the ice.

Left-handed players are said to have an easier time on the left wing due to their position and angle to the goal. They also have a natural advantage in one-on-one situations due to their dominant hand being closer to the opponent. However, their weaker side may suffer in certain situations, such as faceoffs or backhand shots.

On the other hand, right-handed players may have an easier time on the right wing, but may struggle with one-on-one situations due to their dominant hand being farther from the opponent. However, they may have an advantage in certain situations such as faceoffs or backhand shots, as their stronger hand is on the bottom of the stick.

Ultimately, the strengths and weaknesses of left-handed and right-handed players depend on the individual player’s skills and experience, and both can be valuable assets to any team.

The Ratio of Left-Handed and Right-Handed Players in Professional Hockey

While handedness may seem like a minor detail, it can actually have a significant impact on a player’s performance in ice hockey. But what is the distribution of left-handed and right-handed players in professional hockey?

According to a 2019 survey by The Athletic, approximately 68% of NHL players are right-handed, while 32% are left-handed. This means that left-handed players are actually in the minority, making up just over a third of all NHL players.

Interestingly, the distribution of left-handed and right-handed players can vary by position. For example, defensemen are more likely to be right-handed, while forwards are more evenly split between left-handed and right-handed players.

While the ratio of left-handed and right-handed players may not seem like a significant factor, it can impact everything from matchups to power plays, making it an important consideration for coaches and scouts alike.

Why Does Handedness Matter in Hockey?

Handedness can affect a player’s performance on the ice. In hockey, players are divided into two categories based on their dominant hand: left-handed and right-handed. This classification determines which side of the body is used for stickhandling and shooting, which can impact a player’s overall game.

Handedness affects how players approach the game strategically. In general, left-handed players tend to prefer the left side of the rink, while right-handed players prefer the right side. This preference can impact a player’s decision-making and ability to read the game, as they will naturally be more comfortable in certain areas of the ice.

Handedness also impacts a player’s ability to defend and block shots. A player’s dominant hand affects their ability to reach and defend the opposite side of their body, as well as their ability to block shots with their stick or body. This can be an advantage for players with a certain handedness, depending on their position on the ice.

Handedness can impact a player’s ability to fit into a team’s system. Coaches and scouts may look for players with a specific handedness to fit into their team’s system and complement the strengths of other players on the roster. This can be particularly important for power plays and penalty kills, where specific handedness combinations may be more effective.

Handedness can also affect a player’s market value. In some cases, a player’s handedness can impact their market value, particularly in free agency. Teams may be willing to pay a premium for a player with a specific handedness that complements their existing roster or fills a specific need.

The Advantage of Facing a Same-Handed Opponent

One of the primary reasons handedness matters in hockey is the advantage of facing a same-handed opponent. A left-handed player generally has an easier time defending against a right-handed opponent, and vice versa. When players face someone of the opposite handedness, their natural movements can be thrown off, making it more difficult to execute certain plays.

When a player faces an opponent of the same handedness, they can more easily predict their movements and adapt their defense accordingly. For example, a left-handed player will typically have an easier time defending against a left-handed opponent because they are used to the same movements and positioning. This can give them an advantage in intercepting passes and disrupting offensive plays.

Overall, the advantage of facing a same-handed opponent is a major reason why handedness matters in hockey. It allows players to better anticipate and counter their opponent’s movements, leading to more successful defensive plays and ultimately a better chance at winning the game.

In the next section, we’ll explore how handedness impacts players’ positions on the ice.

The Effect of Handedness on Shooting Accuracy and Goalkeeping

Handedness can also affect shooting accuracy in hockey. Left-handed shooters generally aim for the right side of the net, while right-handed shooters aim for the left side. This can make it harder for goalies to anticipate where the shot will go and make a save. However, left-handed shooters may have an advantage in certain situations, such as when shooting from the left faceoff circle.

When it comes to goalkeeping, the handedness of the goalie can also play a role in their performance. For example, a left-handed goalie may have an easier time stopping shots from left-handed shooters because their stick is on the opposite side, giving them a greater range of motion. On the other hand, a right-handed goalie may have an advantage against right-handed shooters for the same reason.

The Impact of Handedness on Players’ Positions

Defensemen: In hockey, defensemen play a critical role in protecting their team’s net and stopping the opposing team’s forwards from scoring. The handedness of a defenseman can impact their ability to play the puck along the boards or make quick passes out of the defensive zone. Left-handed defensemen are typically better suited for playing on the left side of the ice, while right-handed defensemen are better suited for playing on the right side.

Forwards: Forwards are responsible for generating offense and scoring goals. The handedness of a forward can impact their ability to shoot accurately and create scoring opportunities. Left-handed forwards are typically better suited for playing on the left side of the ice, while right-handed forwards are better suited for playing on the right side.

Goaltenders: Goaltenders are responsible for stopping the puck from entering their team’s net. The handedness of a goaltender can impact their ability to make saves on certain types of shots. Left-handed goaltenders are relatively rare, but they can provide an advantage in situations where they face right-handed shooters, as their blocker side (the side with the goalie stick) is on the same side as the shooter’s stick.

Special Teams: Handedness can also impact a player’s role on special teams, such as power play or penalty killing units. For example, left-handed defensemen are often preferred on the power play because they can play the point position on the left side of the ice and take advantage of their ability to make cross-ice passes.

Understanding the impact of handedness on players’ positions is crucial for coaches and players alike. By considering handedness when making lineup decisions and developing strategies, teams can gain a competitive edge and improve their chances of success on the ice.

How Handedness Affects Forward and Defense Positions

Forwards: In hockey, there are left wings, centers, and right wings. Left-handed players typically play left wing, while right-handed players play right wing. This is because the player’s stick is on the outside of the rink, making it easier to handle the puck and take shots from that side of the ice.

Defensemen: In contrast, defensemen typically play on the opposite side of their dominant hand. Left-handed defensemen usually play on the right side of the rink, while right-handed defensemen usually play on the left side. This is because the defenseman’s job is to defend their team’s net and clear the puck out of the defensive zone. Playing on the opposite side allows them to use their stick to block shots and passes more effectively.

Off-wing: However, some players may prefer to play on their off-wing, meaning a left-handed player may play right wing, or a right-handed player may play left wing. This can create advantages as it allows the player to take unexpected shots or passes, but it can also be challenging to adjust to.

Goalies: Handedness also affects the goaltender position. Typically, the starting goalie is chosen based on their performance rather than their handedness. However, a goaltender’s dominant hand affects their stick handling abilities, which can affect their ability to play the puck and clear it out of their zone. A left-handed goalie may have an advantage when stopping shots from right-handed shooters, while a right-handed goalie may have an advantage when stopping shots from left-handed shooters.

The Unique Role of Left-Handed and Right-Handed Goalies

Left-handed goalies have a unique advantage in their ability to catch and hold the puck with their right hand, which can make it harder for opposing players to score on the glove side of the net.

Right-handed goalies, on the other hand, have an advantage in their ability to use their stick to make saves on their blocker side, which can be a challenge for left-handed shooters.

There are fewer left-handed goalies in professional hockey than right-handed goalies, making lefties a unique and sought-after commodity in the league.

How to Determine Your Handedness as a Hockey Player

Understanding the Stick Grip: To determine your handedness, pay attention to which hand is on top of the stick while holding it. Your dominant hand will be the one on top, while the non-dominant hand will be near the bottom of the stick.

Using a Broom: Another way to determine your handedness is by holding a broom with both hands, like you would hold a hockey stick. The hand that is closest to the broom’s bristles is your non-dominant hand, while the other is your dominant hand.

Trying on Gloves: When trying on hockey gloves, the dominant hand should be in the larger part of the glove, while the non-dominant hand should be in the smaller part.

Asking for Feedback: You can also ask your coach or a more experienced player to watch you play and give you feedback on which hand is your dominant one. They can give you tips on how to improve your game based on your handedness.

  • One-handed stickhandling: Hold your stick with one hand and try stickhandling with the puck. If it feels natural to use your left hand, you’re left-handed. If it feels more comfortable to use your right hand, you’re right-handed.

  • Ball toss: Toss a ball back and forth with someone, catching and throwing with your stick hand. Whichever hand you catch the ball with is your dominant hand for hockey.

These simple tests can help you determine your dominant hand for stickhandling and shooting in hockey. It’s important to know your dominant hand as it will help you choose the right equipment and determine the best position for you to play on the ice. Don’t worry if you’re not sure at first โ€“ with practice and time, you’ll get a better sense of which hand is your dominant one.

Switching Handedness: Is It Worth the Effort?

Introduction: Some players consider switching handedness to improve their performance on the ice.

Benefits: Switching can provide an advantage in certain situations and expand your options as a player. It can also help develop your non-dominant hand skills.

Challenges: Switching requires a significant amount of time and effort. It can also feel uncomfortable and impact your current performance.

Considerations: Before making a decision, think about your current level of play, goals, and personal preferences. It’s important to weigh the potential benefits and challenges.

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Switching Handedness

  • Advantage: Increased versatility. Switching your handedness can open up new options for shooting, passing, and stickhandling, making you a more versatile player.
  • Disadvantage: Steep learning curve. Switching handedness requires a lot of practice and patience, and it may take a long time to become comfortable with your new dominant hand.
  • Advantage: Better stickhandling control. If you switch your handedness to your dominant hand, you may gain better control over your stick and have more precision with your movements.
  • Disadvantage: Loss of muscle memory. If you’ve been playing with one hand dominant for a long time, switching to the other hand can feel unnatural and lead to a loss of muscle memory.

Ultimately, the decision to switch handedness should be based on your personal goals and preferences. While it can be a challenging process, it may be worth it if it improves your overall performance on the ice.

Tips and Strategies for Switching Handedness

Switching handedness as a hockey player is a challenging task, but it can be done with determination and practice. Here are some tips to help make the transition smoother:

  • Start with stickhandling: Practice stickhandling drills with your non-dominant hand to improve your stickhandling skills and get comfortable with the new position.
  • Focus on footwork: Footwork is crucial when switching handedness. Work on improving your footwork and agility to better support your new hand position.
  • Be patient: Switching handedness takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and don’t expect overnight success. Stay committed and focused on your goal.
  • Get help from a coach: Seek the help of a coach or trainer who can provide you with the guidance and support you need during the transition process. They can also provide you with drills and exercises to help you improve.

Remember, switching handedness is not for everyone, and there are advantages and disadvantages to consider before making the decision. If you do decide to switch, make sure you do so with careful consideration and dedication to make it a success.

The Success Stories and Failures of Players Who Switched Their Handedness

Switching handedness in hockey can be a risky move for players, and the results are often mixed. Some players have successfully made the transition, while others have struggled to adjust to their new dominant hand.

Success Stories: Several notable players have successfully switched their handedness and gone on to have successful careers, including Bobby Orr, who switched from right to left and went on to become one of the greatest defensemen in NHL history. Another success story is Peter Forsberg, who switched from left to right and won two Olympic gold medals and two Stanley Cups.

Failures: On the other hand, some players have tried to switch handedness and ultimately failed. One example is Alexander Semin, who switched from left to right but struggled with the change and ultimately switched back. Another example is Mike Comrie, who switched from left to right but found that his performance suffered and eventually switched back as well.

Factors Contributing to Success or Failure: The success or failure of switching handedness can depend on several factors, including the player’s age, skill level, and dedication to the transition process. Players who make the switch at a younger age and have the proper training and practice tend to have a better chance of success.

Lessons Learned: The success stories and failures of players who have switched handedness provide valuable lessons for other players considering making the change. It’s important to carefully consider the decision and seek advice from coaches and trainers before making the switch.

The Future of Handedness in Hockey: Trends and Predictions

Analytics: With the increasing use of analytics in hockey, teams are paying closer attention to the impact of handedness on performance. As more data is collected and analyzed, we can expect to see a greater emphasis on players’ handedness when it comes to team building and player development.

Evolving playing styles: As playing styles continue to evolve, we may see a shift in the importance of handedness. For example, with the rise of faster, more agile players, having a dominant hand on one side of the stick may become less important, as players rely more on quick and nimble stickhandling rather than traditional power moves.

Growing youth participation: With hockey becoming more accessible to youth players around the world, we may see a greater variety of handedness among players. This could lead to greater diversity in playing styles and more opportunities for players who may not fit the traditional mold.

New technologies: Advances in technology may also have an impact on handedness in hockey. For example, the development of customizable sticks and other equipment may make it easier for players to switch their handedness without sacrificing performance. This could lead to more players experimenting with switching, and a greater variety of handedness on the ice.

The Increasing Popularity of Left-Handed Players in Recent Years

Left-handed players have traditionally been in the minority in hockey, but in recent years, there has been a growing trend towards more left-handed players in the NHL. Some experts believe this trend is due to changes in the way the game is played, with more emphasis on speed and skill. Left-handed players are often seen as having an advantage in these areas due to their dominant hand being on the top of the stick, which allows for greater control and maneuverability.

Additionally, left-handed players may be more difficult for right-handed opponents to defend against, as they may be less familiar with the unique angles and strategies used by left-handed players. This can give left-handed players a competitive edge on the ice.

The Role of Handedness in the Evolution of Hockey Tactics and Strategies

Left-handed players as offensive weapons: With the increasing popularity of left-handed players, teams are finding ways to incorporate them into their offensive strategies. Left-handed players can create more shooting and passing lanes on their strong side, giving them a unique advantage over right-handed players.

The impact on power plays and penalty kills: Handedness can also play a significant role in special teams situations. Teams may choose to have a mix of left and right-handed players on their power play and penalty kill units to create more options and confuse the opposing team.

Defensive strategies against left-handed players: Defensively, teams may adjust their strategies when facing left-handed players. For example, they may position their defenders to force left-handed players to shoot or pass on their weaker side, or they may choose to have a right-handed player defend against them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is handedness important in hockey?

In hockey, handedness refers to a player’s dominant hand, which affects stickhandling, shooting, and overall performance. Handedness can determine which position a player is best suited for and which side of the ice they should play on. It can also affect gameplay strategies, as coaches may choose to match players with specific handedness to create advantages on the ice. Knowing your handedness as a player is crucial for improving your skills and developing your game.

How is handedness determined in hockey?

Handedness is determined by which hand a player holds their stick with, and the position of that hand on the stick. A player who holds their stick with their left hand at the top is considered a left-handed player, and vice versa for right-handed players. To determine your handedness, try holding a stick and mimicking stickhandling and shooting motions to see which hand feels most natural at the top of the stick.

Can a player switch their handedness in hockey?

Yes, a player can switch their handedness in hockey, but it requires significant effort and practice. Switching handedness can have advantages, such as being able to play on either side of the ice and increasing shooting angles, but it can also be challenging as it requires retraining muscle memory and adjusting to new gameplay strategies.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of playing as a left-handed player?

Advantages of playing as a left-handed player include having a better angle for shooting on the right side of the ice, as well as being able to play on the left side of the ice and have a better angle for passing. Disadvantages can include being more easily checked by right-handed players, and having limited options for finding left-handed sticks and equipment.

How has handedness affected the evolution of hockey tactics and strategies?

Handedness has played a role in the evolution of hockey tactics and strategies, with coaches and players recognizing the advantages of matching handedness in certain positions and situations. The increasing popularity of left-handed players has also led to new gameplay strategies and adaptations, such as having more left-handed players on the ice at once to create an advantage. As the sport continues to evolve, handedness will likely continue to play a role in shaping gameplay tactics and strategies.

Craving More Content?

Ice Hockey Central