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Hockey is a unique game for many reasons, but perhaps one of the more overlooked reasons is that substitutions are often carried out during gameplay. Yes, unlike in basketball, football and baseball where subs can only enter during stoppages in play, line changes often occur while the game is actually going on. Noting this, teams must practice changing on the fly so that bad changes don’t lead to odd-man rushes, scoring chances and goals from the opposition.
So just what’s behind the art of a line change on the fly? Here’s a look:
Line changes should happen with fluidity as a team moves through the neutral zone and readies to attack the opposition. It’s generally easier for defensemen to change on the attack, as they aren’t usually carrying the puck forward. And forwards can change while sustaining offensive zone pressure when done correctly.
Teams should practice the dump and change, which basically consists of a skater crossing center and then dumping the puck into the opposition’s zone. As the opponent retrieves the puck, there should be ample time to make a successful line change while not surrendering a scoring chance.
Though bench players aren’t involved in the game at the time, they should always be alert of the situation on the ice and the player they will replace if the coach calls their number. We recommend that bench players enter the ice by going over the bench boards and players exit the ice through the bench door to minimize traffic jams while changing.
Line changes can become challenging during the second periods of games, when teams switch sides of the ice. This means that each team will have a longer change, as their benches are closer to the offensive zone than the change-friendly defensive zone. Coaches need to work on this with their teams, as there’s less margin of error involved with line changes during the middle stanza.
Like anything in hockey, line changes need to be practiced to be perfected. And the art of the line change should not be underestimated. That’s because failing to execute it regularly is going to mean more scoring chances for the other team. And that’s going to mean more pucks in the back of your team’s net. Ready to take your skills to the next level? Signup for a Rick Heinz Hockey Camp.
