Ice Hockey: Key Terms & Definitions You Need To Know

Ice hockey, a fast-paced and exhilarating sport, comes with its own unique vocabulary. Understanding these terms can significantly enhance your appreciation and knowledge of the game. Whether you're a new fan or looking to brush up on your hockey lingo, this guide covers essential ice hockey terms and their definitions.

Essential Ice Hockey Terms

• Assist: Awarded to a player (or players, with a maximum of two) who facilitates a goal. It's the pass or passes that directly lead to the goal.
• Backchecking: When a player skates back towards their own defensive zone to disrupt the opposing team's attack. It's a crucial defensive skill.
• Body Check: Legal tactic where a player uses their body to separate an opponent from the puck. It must be done within the rules to avoid penalties.
• Breakaway: When a player has clear possession of the puck with no defending players between them and the opposing team's goal, except for the goalie. A prime scoring opportunity.
• Crease: The semi-circular area in front of the goal. Offensive players cannot impede the goalie in this area.
• Deke: A move by a player handling the puck to deceive an opponent, often involving fancy stick work.
• Face-Off: The method used to begin play at the start of each period or after stoppages. The referee drops the puck between two opposing players.
• Forechecking: Checking in the offensive zone, attempting to regain possession of the puck and create scoring chances.
• Power Play: When a team has a numerical advantage due to an opposing player being penalized. A significant opportunity to score.
• Penalty Kill: The defensive effort by a team when they are shorthanded due to a penalty. Requires disciplined play to prevent the opposition from scoring.
• Puck: The hard rubber disc that players shoot at the net.
• Slapshot: A powerful shot where the player swings the stick back and then forward, striking the ice before hitting the puck.
• Screen: An offensive tactic where a player positions themselves in front of the opposing goalie, obstructing their view of the puck.
• Sin Bin: Nickname for the penalty box.
• Top Shelf: A shot that goes into the upper portion of the net, making it difficult for the goalie to save.

Common Penalties in Ice Hockey

Understanding common penalties is also vital for comprehending the flow of the game. Here are a few:

• Tripping: Using a stick or body to cause an opponent to fall.
• Hooking: Using the stick to impede an opponent's progress.
• Interference: Illegally impeding an opponent who does not possess the puck.
• High-Sticking: Contacting an opponent with the stick above shoulder level.
• Slashing: Swinging the stick at an opponent.

Understanding Hockey Positions

• Forwards (Center, Left Wing, Right Wing): Primarily responsible for scoring goals.
• Defensemen: Focus on preventing the opposing team from scoring and moving the puck out of their defensive zone.
• Goalie: The last line of defense, responsible for preventing the puck from entering the net.

Improving Your Hockey IQ

By familiarizing yourself with these ice hockey terms, you'll gain a deeper understanding and enjoyment of the game. Continue to watch games, read articles, and discuss hockey with fellow fans to further enhance your knowledge. This glossary provides a solid foundation for navigating the exciting world of ice hockey. Whether following the NHL or your local league, knowing the lingo makes all the difference. Expand your hockey knowledge further by checking out resources like the official NHL website or reputable sports news outlets like ESPN for the latest updates, game analysis, and player interviews.