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Key Hockey Skills You Should Be Adding to Your Training
Whether you’re out on the ice or working on your game off it, there are a few key skills you should be focusing on to elevate your performance. In this breakdown, we’ll dive into some of the things Nathan MacKinnon does to create space, protect the puck, and get more shots on net. These are the techniques you should be adding to your training if you want to level up.
Speed and Crossovers: The Foundation of Quick Transitions
One of the first things to notice about MacKinnon’s game is his use of speed and crossovers. His ability to blow by defenders comes from mastering these two elements. Speed is crucial for creating space, and crossovers allow him to change direction in a flash, keeping defenders off balance. In your training, make sure you’re working on crossovers in both directions, so you can make those quick, unpredictable cuts like MacKinnon.
One-Hand Puck Protection: Know When to Drop a Hand
MacKinnon’s puck protection is another skill to pay attention to. When he’s not near the net and has open space, he often drops to one hand to shield the puck. This move gives him extra reach and control, keeping the puck away from defenders. In this example, with a defender closing in, MacKinnon uses his free hand to create separation and protect the puck, allowing him to skate past the first wave of pressure. When you’re training, practice switching to one hand on the stick when you have open space and need to fend off pressure.
Head Up, Create Space: The Importance of Seeing the Play
One of the most effective things MacKinnon does is keeping his head up and reading the ice. He’s always aware of his space and knows when defenders are approaching. After using his crossover to generate speed, MacKinnon keeps his head up and makes a hard cut, moving the puck from his backhand to forehand, pushing it into space where he can attack with speed.
Push the Puck to Space: Move the Defender, Then Move the Puck
A key takeaway from MacKinnon’s game is how he pushes the puck to space instead of keeping it on his blade the whole time. In this example, he pushes the puck from one side to the other, forcing defenders to chase, and then meets the puck on the far side. By pushing the puck into space, MacKinnon gives himself more room to maneuver and makes it harder for defenders to lock him down. In your training, focus on pushing the puck into space, rather than stickhandling too much in tight quarters.
Secondary Touch: The Quick Follow-Up
What sets MacKinnon apart is his ability to get a quick second touch after creating space. In this clip, after pushing the puck, he adjusts his angle on the goalie and doesn’t waste time stickhandling. Instead, he gets the puck off his blade again and toward the net, taking advantage of the open space he just created. This secondary touch is key to getting more shots on net. Practice this in your own game: push the puck to space, then quickly follow up with a shot before the defense or goalie can adjust.
Final Thoughts
MacKinnon’s ability to push the puck to space, create separation, and use a quick secondary touch makes him one of the most dangerous players on the ice. Incorporating these skills into your training will help you improve your game, whether you’re in open ice or tight situations near the net. Remember, it’s all about moving the puck, reading the play, and acting quickly.
Train smart, not just hard. 💪🏒