1. Crashing the Net
Crashing the net in hockey occurs when one or more players rushes at the opposing team's net, nearly crashing into them. Crashing the net sometimes happens simply as a result of the momentum of the game and the direction that players are skating. But crashing the net in hockey can also be used strategically to distract the goalie, intimidate the other team and create scoring chances.
2. Get Defensive
Defensive players play a big role in crashing the net in hockey. Both offense and defense can crash the net but defensive players have to move fast under pressure and keep the other team from scoring. Defensemen need to hold off the other players crashing the net but also stay out of the goaltender's way so he can guard the net and keep an eye on the puck. Defensive players usually meet offensive players crashing the net and try to redirect the puck before they have a chance to score.
3. Let the Goalie Do His Job
Players crashing the net have to be careful not to draw a goalie interference penalty. Goalie interference penalties are called when a player physically impedes the goalie from stopping the puck, checks the goalie, or gets between the goalie and the puck. Players have to stay outside of the net and out of the goalie's way. Drawing an interference penalty means a stoppage in play, taking away any scoring chances.
4. Watch Out for the Net
Crashing the net takes a bit of skill to gain control of the puck and rush the goalie without knocking the goal net off it's posts. Goal nets are not permanently anchored to the ice and can be dislodged from their posts if they're hit hard enough. If the goal net is dislodged, any goals scored will deemed illegal and play will be stopped, so crashing the net is only effective if it doesn't interfere with the goal net.
5. Crashing and Scoring
Crashing the net can provide great scoring chances. There is so much action going on around the goalie that he can be distracted away from the puck as long as players work quickly and attack from several directions. An offenseman can crash the net in front so that the goalie is focused on her, while her defensive teammate circles around the back of the net to feed her rebounds that the goalie kicks out.
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