Shots in hockey are one of the key aspects of the game and ways to put the puck in the opponent’s goal. There are several types of shots in hockey:
- Slap Shot: This shot is taken by a player using a powerful swing of the stick and hitting the puck that is travelling at speed towards the goal. The slap shot is used to create strong and accurate shots.
- Wrist Shot: A wrist shot is made with a quick and accurate movement of the arm and hand when a player “whips” the puck. This shot is usually used for precision shots and attempts to deceive the goalie.
- Backhand: A backhand is a shot taken from the back of the stick (or backhand). It is used when a player is in an awkward position to make a wrist shot. The backhand can be either accurate or powerful, depending on the skill of the player.
- Drag-move (stick defence): This shot is used to deceive the goalie and defenders. The player “pulls up” the puck to the stick and suddenly shifts it to the other side, deceiving the defence and goalie.
- Dribbling (short kicks): Sometimes players use short kicks or dribbling to control the puck close to the goal and create shot opportunities.
- Puck drop: Sometimes a shot is taken while a player is falling to the ice. This type of shot can be effective in creating unexpected situations for the goalie.
- Slot shot (close-range shot): This shot is taken from close range when the player is in the “slot” – the centre of the goal. It is aimed at maximising the shot on goal and usually requires a quick reaction.
Throws in hockey require good skills, strength and accuracy. Mastery of different types of shots helps players create chances for shots and influence the outcome of the game.