Rush Read , Shoot or Pass
Decision-Making
Legend
- player
- defender
- ball
- movement path
How it works
Develop foundational decision-making on a 2-on-1 rush by reading the defender and choosing the correct shoot or pass option.
What you need
- hockey stick
- puck
- ice
- goalie
Your focus
The shoot-or-pass decision on a rush is the most common decision-making moment in offensive hockey. Building a reliable read process early creates the systematic decision-making habit that produces results under game pressure. Players who are decisive on rushes score more and create more because they commit fully to their read.
Two players enter the zone on a 2-on-1 rush.
Defender chooses to cover either the pass or the shot on each rep, randomized by coach signal.
Puck carrier must read the defender's position and choose the correct option.
Debrief after each rep on the decision, was it correct based on what was available?
Goal
You're there when your 2-on-1 decision is made before you cross the blue line, read the defender early and commit to the call.
Helpful cues
- Look at the defender's feet before you release
- If they are flat, shoot; if they are angled toward you, pass
- Decide at the blue line, not in the slot
Adjust the challenge
Make it easier
Strip it back
Defender holds a stationary flat position for first 5 reps so the read is the same each time.
UpLVL it
Add the next challenge
Defender plus goalie both communicate, goalie cheats to the shooter's side, adding a second element to the read.No account needed
Build a practice plan
Add drills, keep the plan in this browser, then share a link with your staff or parents.This library helps you find the right drill. Inside UpLVL the right drill finds the player.
This library helps you find the right drill. Inside UpLVL the right drill finds the player.After every practice, UpLVL automatically surfaces the drills each player needs to work on most. See it for yourself.