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The 'Power Play' is the only time during a game when the team accrues a numeric advantage over the opposition for a significant amount of time.
This can be a 1 or 2 man advantage for as long as 5 minutes
In modern hockey the advent of 'Special Teams' within a club has given rise to extremely efficient 'Penalty Kill' units that consist of top calibre Defenders and Attackers, the latter being very proficient in defending. Accordingly the time of the shorthanded team staying on the 'back-foot' inside their zone has long gone.
'Penalty Kill' units now spend their ice time creating quick and aggressive pressure on their opponents with a desire to take control, therefore advantage, of the situation. Further risk is possible by encountering an attack orientated unit that takes every opportunity to score against the superior side.
With this in mind a small number of very fundamental 'rules' should be observed by the 'Power Play'
1 - Numeric advantage is NOT an excuse to have a rest and take it easy
2 - At all times the highest possible tempo must be maintained
3 - Passing MUST be accurate
4 - COMMUNICATION is of utmost importance
These are the most basic requirements that will be expanded as the explanation progresses.
By eliminating the '1 on 1' factor of the game you gain the advantage of - getting control of the puck - opening lanes by use of width and depth - triangulation ( at least two passing options ) - gaining the end zone - creating tangible scoring chances.
During the Power Play everybody should be trying to influence the situation by distracting or interfering with the opponents set up by being an aggressive passing option or, just as importantly, by creating space.
The puck carrier should be able to 'see' two passes ahead. This requires the remaining players to work together so as to not 'crowd' themselves in and provide clear, safe passing options. This also allows the puck to be moved from a weak position to one of strength in the event of 'PK' unit pressure in this instance.
Once you have gained the opponents end zone you should utilise the man advantage to decongest the slot with player and puck movement ( tempt the defender out of position with the puck ). You can offensively dictate in this area by continuous movement of players and puck to any preset pattern required.
You should at all times utilise shooting angles that allow any rebounds to be maintained in the slot. Accordingly, avoid shooting high unless net-minder is on the floor.
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