PicoBlog

Line changing is a common occurrence in ice hockey.

It’s like a pit stop in F1 or NASCAR… in that it’s boring and out of the limelight most of the time… that is until it goes wrong, like it did for Brad Marchand, on a play that contributed to his team losing a game in the Stanley Cup Final.

Unlike in racing, ice hockey has way more variability during the change. Today we are going to look at some ways that players can shift change effectively and efficiently. Hopefully, we avoid the rolling of eyes when the coach starts talking about the logistics and details around changing lines.

Past Line Changing Posts:

Defensemen

The first defenseman to enter the ice on the change works their way to the far side opposite of the beech. This allows the tired defenseman to swap to the near side. If there is no threat, they go for a change. If there is a threat, they are closer to the bench to make an easier change at first availability.

Forwards

The first forward heads to the far side of the ice and into that lane. This is particularly crucial if the opposing team has or is getting the puck as they’ll be able to quickly attack while the opponent is vulnerable.

This allows your team to enter into its structure quickly and create resistance. Like the force defender, this naturally encourages the opposition into your teammates/your help.

Late/Sneaky Change

Some coaches say “Never change when the other team has the puck” or when backchecking. Being the fifth player back doesn’t make a big difference, if tired and/or late up the ice it’s a great time to shift change. This is particularly effective when the opposition defensemen are also going for a line change.

Staying behind

Leaving one player behind is a great tactic to allow for an easier change or buy time for a shift change to occur. Once done pressuring, then go for a change. This effectively should prevent the quick-up attack threat that catches your team mid-change and out of position.

Playing the role effectively:

Playing the role poorly:

Players must understand that how and when you change lines are critical details during the course of gameplay. Exit the ice at the appropriate time. Don’t put your team in a negative position. Be smart in timing - a too-many men penalty is a devastating unforced error. And finally, leave the ice better than you found it, and enter the game with a plan to make it easier on your teammates - and harder on your opponent.

Further Reading

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