What’s the Crease in Hockey? All You Need to Know

Ice hockey is a fast-paced and exciting sport that requires a lot of skill and strategy. One important element of the game that is often overlooked by casual fans is the crease, a small blue area located in front of the net. But what is the crease in hockey, and why is it so important?

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the crease and its history, rules, and controversies. We’ll also examine how the crease is used in international and women’s hockey, as well as explore common violations and penalties associated with the crease.

Whether you’re a die-hard hockey fan or just getting started, understanding the crease is essential to understanding the game. So, let’s dive in and learn all about this critical component of ice hockey!

Get ready to discover the history and purpose of the crease, and learn about the rules surrounding it. You’ll also find out about some of the most controversial moments involving the crease, and how it’s used in different forms of hockey. Keep reading to become an expert on everything crease-related!

Definition and Purpose

If you’re new to hockey, you may have heard of the crease, but what exactly is it? The crease is the area in front of the goal net that’s marked off by a painted semicircle. The crease serves as an area where only the goalie can play the puck, and other players must not interfere with the goalie’s ability to make a save. The crease also serves as a visual aid for officials to make calls on plays near the net.

The purpose of the crease is to give the goaltender a protected area to do their job. It prevents players from crashing into the goalie and interfering with their ability to make a save. Without the crease, the goaltender would have a much harder time defending the net. It also helps the officials to make accurate calls on goals and penalties, as the crease serves as a clear boundary for player positioning.

The size of the crease is standardized across all levels of hockey, with a radius of 6 feet from the center of the goal line. It is painted blue in NHL and international games, while it is painted red in college and minor league hockey.

While the purpose of the crease is to protect the goalie, it also adds an extra element of strategy to the game. Players must be careful not to enter the crease while the goalie is making a save, as this can result in a penalty. However, players can also use the crease to their advantage, by setting up screens in front of the net to block the goalie’s view of incoming shots.

What is the Crease in Hockey?

The crease in hockey is a painted area on the ice in front of the goal net. It is a rectangular shape with rounded edges, and it’s outlined in red. The crease is an important part of the game and serves several purposes.

• Protecting the Goalie: One of the main purposes of the crease is to protect the goalie. This area is designed to prevent other players from interfering with the goalie’s ability to defend the net.
• Goal Scoring: Another purpose of the crease is to provide a space where players can score goals. A player who is inside the crease can legally score a goal if they manage to get the puck into the net.
• Crease Violations: The crease also serves as a way to enforce rules in the game. Players are not allowed to interfere with the goalie when they are in the crease, and violations of this rule can result in penalties.
• Video Review: With the rise of video review in hockey, the crease has become even more important. Referees can use video replay to determine if a player was inside the crease when a goal was scored, which can affect the outcome of the game.

Understanding the crease and its rules is crucial to playing and enjoying the game of hockey. Let’s explore its history, rules, and controversies in more detail.

History of the Crease

Hockey’s early days: The origins of the crease date back to the early days of hockey in the late 1800s. The crease was introduced to prevent goalies from being interfered with while they defended their net.

The introduction of the blue line: Prior to the introduction of the blue line in 1918, the crease was used to mark the area in front of the net where goalies could handle the puck. The blue line allowed for more structured play in the neutral zone and the crease was no longer used for this purpose.

The modern crease: The modern crease as we know it today was introduced in 1945, when the NHL officially defined its dimensions and restrictions. The crease is a semi-circle with a six-foot radius around the goal, and it is painted blue.

Changes over the years: The size of the crease has changed over the years, with its current dimensions being 8 feet wide and 4 feet deep. In 1991, the NHL introduced a rule change allowing goals to be scored if the puck deflected off an attacking player inside the crease.

Crease violations and penalties: In the early years of hockey, crease violations were not penalized. This changed in the 1930s when the NHL began penalizing players for entering the crease. Today, crease violations are still penalized and result in a faceoff in the defensive zone.

While the crease in hockey is now a well-established part of the game, it wasn’t always present. In fact, the crease was introduced in the early 1900s as a way to prevent goalies from leaving their crease and interfering with play.

The original crease was a simple 8-foot semi-circle in front of the net. However, as the game evolved, so did the crease. Changes were made to the size and shape of the crease, and rules were introduced to regulate how goalies could interact with it.

Over the years, the crease has played a significant role in some of hockey’s most memorable moments. From controversial goals to game-winning saves, the crease has been at the center of some of the sport’s most exciting moments.

Today, the crease remains a vital part of the game, and understanding its history is essential to understanding the game of hockey as a whole.

Rules Surrounding the Crease

Rule 1: Goaltenders are the only players who can legally stand in the crease during gameplay. However, players can skate through the crease as long as they do not interfere with the goaltender.

Rule 2: If an attacking player enters the crease and interferes with the goaltender, the goal will not count, and the attacking player will receive a minor penalty for goaltender interference.

Rule 3: If a defending player pushes an attacking player into their own goaltender, causing the goaltender to become unable to make a save, the goal will count, and the defending player will receive a minor penalty for interference.

In addition to these specific rules, referees can use their discretion to call penalties or disallow goals if they feel a player has interfered with the goaltender’s ability to make a save.

What Are the Rules for Goaltenders in the Crease?

Goaltenders are subject to specific rules when playing within the crease area. One of the main rules is that goaltenders cannot be interfered with or impeded while in the crease, which could result in a penalty for the opposing team. Additionally, goaltenders cannot intentionally dislodge the goal net from its moorings to stop play. If they do, a penalty shot may be awarded to the other team.

Another important rule is that goaltenders cannot play the puck outside of the trapezoid-shaped area behind the net. If they do, they may receive a minor penalty for delay of game. Goaltenders also cannot cover the puck outside of the crease area. If they do, a two-minute minor penalty for delay of game will be assessed.

Lastly, if the puck is shot into the net by a player on the goaltender’s team while an opposing player is in the crease, the goal may be disallowed. This rule is commonly referred to as “goaltender interference,” and is intended to prevent offensive players from interfering with the goaltender’s ability to make a save.

Controversies and Memorable Moments

Controversies: The crease has been the subject of much controversy in the history of hockey. One of the most famous controversies was during the 1999 Stanley Cup Finals, when Brett Hull scored the game-winning goal for the Dallas Stars with his skate in the crease. This sparked a debate about whether the goal should have counted, as at that time, the rule was that no player could enter the crease before the puck.

Memorable Moments: The crease has also been the site of many memorable moments in hockey history. One of the most famous moments was during the 1972 Summit Series between Canada and the Soviet Union, when Paul Henderson scored the series-winning goal while standing in the crease. This goal is now known as the “goal heard around the world” and is considered one of the greatest moments in Canadian hockey history.

Recent Controversies: In recent years, the crease has been the subject of controversy again. In 2017, during the Stanley Cup Final between the Nashville Predators and the Pittsburgh Penguins, a goal by the Predators was disallowed because the referee ruled that Colton Sissons had entered the crease before the puck. This decision was controversial, as many argued that Sissons was pushed into the crease by a Penguins player and had no control over his movements.

Infamous Crease Violation Calls in NHL History

The crease has been at the center of many controversial moments in NHL history. Some of the most infamous crease violation calls include:

1. Brett Hull’s Stanley Cup Winning Goal: In the 1999 Stanley Cup Final, Brett Hull scored the game-winning goal in triple overtime for the Dallas Stars. However, replays showed that his skate was in the crease, which was against the rules at the time.
2. 1996 Western Conference Final: In Game 4 of the 1996 Western Conference Final between the Detroit Red Wings and the Colorado Avalanche, a controversial crease violation call went against the Red Wings. The call ultimately led to the Avalanche winning the game and the series.
3. 2018 Stanley Cup Final: In Game 1 of the 2018 Stanley Cup Final between the Vegas Golden Knights and the Washington Capitals, a goal by the Golden Knights was overturned due to a crease violation call. The call was controversial and sparked debate among fans and analysts.

While controversial crease violation calls can be frustrating for fans and players alike, they serve as a reminder of the importance of following the rules and regulations of the game.

Most Memorable Crease Moments in NHL History

Brett Hull’s Stanley Cup-Winning Goal: In 1999, Brett Hull’s goal in the third overtime period of Game 6 of the Stanley Cup Finals gave the Dallas Stars the championship. The goal was initially controversial because Hull appeared to be in the crease, but the goal was allowed to stand, and it remains one of the most memorable moments in NHL history.

Patrick Roy’s Stanley Cup Clutch Save: In 1993, Patrick Roy made an incredible save against the Los Angeles Kings in Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Finals. With seconds remaining in the game, Roy made a save with his left pad while sliding across the crease to preserve the win for the Montreal Canadiens. The save is considered one of the greatest in NHL history.

Tim Thomas’ Stanley Cup Final Performance: In 2011, Tim Thomas and the Boston Bruins won the Stanley Cup, and Thomas’ performance in the Final was legendary. In Game 7 against the Vancouver Canucks, Thomas made a number of key saves, including one where he came out of the crease to make a diving stop. Thomas’ performance earned him the Conn Smythe Trophy as the playoff MVP.

Crease in International and Women’s Hockey

International Hockey: The rules governing the crease in international hockey are similar to those in the NHL, with the purpose of protecting the goaltender and ensuring fair play. However, there are some minor differences, such as the use of video replay to review goals and possible crease violations. The International Ice Hockey Federation also allows for the use of a larger crease in some international tournaments, such as the Olympics.

Women’s Hockey: The crease rules in women’s hockey are the same as those in the men’s game, with the exception of the crease size. In women’s hockey, the crease is smaller than in men’s hockey, reflecting the differences in the size and speed of the players. The smaller crease also allows for more space around the net, making it easier for players to score goals.

Impact on the Game: The crease plays an important role in both international and women’s hockey, shaping the way the game is played and impacting the strategies and tactics employed by teams. Understanding the rules and nuances of the crease is key to success on the ice, and goaltenders and skaters alike must be well-versed in its intricacies.

How Does the Crease Differ in International Hockey?

While the crease in North American hockey is a trapezoid, international hockey still uses the traditional semicircular crease. This crease is smaller than the North American version, measuring 5 feet (1.5 meters) in radius. In international play, the goaltender is not allowed to play the puck outside of the designated area behind the net. The referee can also penalize any player who makes contact with the goaltender within the crease. Furthermore, international hockey does not allow goaltender interference, meaning any contact made by an opposing player with the goaltender results in a penalty.

These differences between the two versions of the crease can cause confusion for players and officials who are accustomed to one but not the other. Some international players who have made the transition to North American hockey have had difficulty adjusting to the new rules surrounding the crease.

Overall, the differences in the crease rules between international and North American hockey reflect the unique styles of play and traditions of the two regions.

What Are the Crease Rules in Women’s Hockey?

Women’s hockey is played under the same rules as men’s hockey, with some differences in protective equipment. As such, the rules for the crease in women’s hockey are the same as those in men’s hockey. Rule 69 of the NHL rulebook covers the crease area, and it is enforced in women’s hockey as well.

One unique aspect of women’s hockey is the presence of crease violation circles in front of each net. These circles serve as an indicator for players to avoid contact with the goaltender and to allow them room to move in and out of the crease area. However, players are still allowed to make contact with the goaltender within the crease area, as long as it is incidental contact and not done intentionally.

Overall, the rules for the crease in women’s hockey are the same as those in men’s hockey, with the addition of the crease violation circles to help prevent contact with the goaltender.

Crease Violations and Penalties

Crease violations occur when a player interferes with the goaltender inside the crease. The NHL has strict rules on crease violations, with penalties ranging from minor to major penalties, and in some cases, game misconducts.

One of the most common crease violations is goaltender interference. This occurs when an opposing player makes contact with the goaltender inside the crease, preventing them from making a save.

Another crease violation is the goaltender being pushed into the net while the puck is in play. If a player pushes a goaltender into the net with the puck in play, the goal is disallowed, and the offending player is given a penalty.

Crease violations can also occur when a player intentionally or accidentally knocks the net off its moorings. This is considered a delay of game penalty and results in a two-minute minor penalty.

Referees have the ability to review crease violations, and if a call is deemed incorrect, they can overturn it. However, if the goaltender is pushed into the net and the goal is disallowed, the referee’s decision cannot be overturned.

What Are the Most Common Crease Violations?

Interference: If an offensive player interferes with a goalie’s ability to move freely in the crease, it can be called as an interference penalty.

Goaltender Interference: If a player makes contact with a goalie inside the crease, it can be called as a goaltender interference penalty.

Delay of Game: If a defensive player intentionally knocks the goalposts off the moorings to stop play, it can be called as a delay of game penalty.

Penalty Shot: If a defensive player covers the puck inside the crease with their hand or equipment, or throws their stick at the puck, it can be called as a penalty shot.

Crease Violation: If an offensive player enters the crease before the puck, or stays in the crease after the goalie has covered the puck, it can be called as a crease violation and the play is stopped.

What Penalties Can Result from Crease Violations?

When a player violates the crease rule, they may receive a penalty from the referee. The severity of the penalty depends on the nature and intention of the violation.

Minor Penalty: If a player enters the crease to interfere with the goaltender or play the puck, they will receive a two-minute minor penalty for interference.

Major Penalty: If a player charges the goaltender while in the crease, they may receive a five-minute major penalty for charging.

Game Misconduct: If a player intentionally or recklessly runs the goaltender while in the crease, they may receive a game misconduct penalty and be ejected from the game.

Penalty Shot: If a player deliberately places any part of their body or stick in the crease and interferes with the goaltender, a penalty shot may be awarded to the opposing team.

No Penalty: In some cases, the violation may not result in a penalty, such as when a player accidentally enters the crease or when the goaltender initiates contact with the player.

How Are Crease Violations Reviewed and Overturned?

Crease violations can sometimes be controversial and may require review by officials. When a goal is scored, the play is automatically reviewed to ensure there were no crease violations. If a violation is detected, the goal will be disallowed.

If a team challenges a goal due to a potential crease violation, the play will be reviewed by video replay. The NHL’s Situation Room in Toronto will examine the footage and make the final call.

In some cases, a crease violation call may be overturned if it is deemed that the goaltender was not actually interfered with or if the goal was scored before any contact occurred. However, these decisions can be controversial and subject to debate among fans and analysts.

Frequently Asked Questions