Power Play (PP) Strategies in Hockey (Complete Guide)

Power play situations are one key aspect of the game where offensive strategy plays a critical role.

A power play occurs when one team has a numerical advantage on the ice due to a penalty being assessed to the opposing team.

Common power play formations include:

• Umbrella Formation
• Diamond Formation
• Overload Formation
• 1-3-1 Formation
• Spread Formation
• Box+1 Formation
• Two Defensemen High Formation
• Net Front Presence

Each has its advantages, like quick puck movement and multiple passing options, but also disadvantages, such as predictability.

Below we look in more detail at various power play strategies in hockey, examining their effectiveness and providing valuable insights into how teams can maximize their chances of scoring during these situations.

The Importance of Power Play Strategies

Power play opportunities are highly valuable in hockey as they provide teams with a chance to score a goal while the opposing team is short-handed.

A successful power play can shift the momentum of a game and significantly increase a team’s chances of winning.

Therefore, having effective power play strategies in place is crucial for any team looking to achieve success in the sport.

Power Play Formations

Some common power play formations in hockey:

1. The Umbrella Power Play Formation

The Umbrella power play formation is one of the most commonly used strategies in hockey.

It involves positioning players in a shape that resembles an umbrella, with one player at the point, two players on the half-boards, and one player in front of the net.

This formation allows for quick puck movement and creates shooting lanes for players at the point.

Advantages:

• Creates multiple passing options
• Allows for quick puck movement
• Creates shooting lanes for players at the point

Disadvantages:

• Can be predictable if not executed properly
• Requires strong communication and coordination among players

2. The Diamond Power Play Formation

The Diamond power play formation is another popular strategy used by teams during power play situations.

In this formation, players are positioned in a diamond shape, with one player at the point, two players on the half-boards, and one player in front of the net.

This formation allows for quick puck movement and provides players with multiple passing options.

Advantages:

• Creates passing options in all directions
• Allows for quick puck movement
• Provides players with multiple shooting options

Disadvantages:

• Requires strong communication and coordination among players
• Can be vulnerable to aggressive penalty killing strategies

3. The Overload Power Play Formation

The Overload power play formation is a strategy that focuses on overloading one side of the ice to create scoring opportunities.

In this formation, three players are positioned on one side of the ice, with one player at the point, one player on the half-boards, and one player in front of the net.

The remaining player is positioned on the weak side of the ice.

Advantages:

• Creates numerical advantage on one side of the ice
• Allows for quick puck movement and scoring opportunities
• Can confuse and overwhelm penalty killers

Disadvantages:

• Leaves weak side of the ice vulnerable to counterattacks
• Requires precise execution and timing

4. 1-3-1 Formation

One player at the point (usually a defenseman), three players across the middle (two wingers and a center), and one player in front of the net.

Advantages:

• Versatile formation that can quickly transition to other setups.
• It provides a balanced attack from both the point and the sides.

Disadvantages:

• Requires precise passing and can be vulnerable to aggressive penalty killing.

5. Spread Formation

Two players at the blue line, two players on the half-boards, and one player in front of the net.

Advantages:

• Spreads out the defense and creates multiple shooting lanes.
• It’s adaptable and can transition into other formations.

Disadvantages:

• Can be vulnerable to quick counterattacks if the puck is turned over.

6. Box+1 Formation

Four players form a box in the offensive zone, with one player floating in the middle.

Advantages:

• The floating player can quickly adjust to puck movement, creating confusion for the defense.

Disadvantages:

• Requires strong communication and can be predictable if not executed with variety.

7. Two Defensemen High Formation

Two defensemen are positioned at the blue line, with three forwards down low.

Advantages:

• Provides strong point shots and allows for quick puck movement down low.

Disadvantages:

• Less offensive pressure from the blue line and can be vulnerable to shorthanded breakaways.

8. Net Front Presence

Two players in front of the net, two on the half-boards, and one at the point.

Advantages:

• Creates traffic in front of the goaltender, making it harder for them to see shots.
• Increases chances for deflections and rebounds.

Disadvantages:

• Less space for passing and can be vulnerable to cleared pucks.

The choice of formation often depends on the team’s personnel, the specific game situation, and the strategies employed by the opposing penalty killers.

Coaches will adjust their power play formations based on these factors to maximize their chances of scoring.

Power Play Strategies & Tactics for 5-on-3 (Two-Man Advantage)

A 5-on-3 power play, also known as a two-man advantage, is one of the most advantageous situations for the offensive team in hockey.

It provides a significant numerical advantage, and teams are expected to capitalize on this opportunity.

Here are some strategies and tactics that teams can employ during a 5-on-3 power play:

1. Triangle Formation:

• Setup: Two players at the blue line (usually defensemen) and three forwards forming a triangle closer to the net.
• Objective: This setup allows for quick puck movement around the perimeter, opening up shooting lanes and forcing the three defenders to shift and open up passing lanes.

2. Overload One Side:

• Setup: Four players overload one side of the ice, with one player positioned centrally or on the opposite side as an outlet.
• Objective: By overloading one side, the offensive team can create mismatches and force the defenders to collapse, leaving the opposite side open for a quick pass and shot.

3. High Slot Presence:

• Setup: One player positioned in the high slot area, two players on the half-boards or face-off circles, and two players at the blue line.
• Objective: The player in the high slot can act as a pivot, receiving and distributing passes or taking shots. This player’s presence also draws defenders out of position.

4. Quick Puck Movement:

• Objective: Rapidly move the puck to force the defenders to shift positions constantly. This movement can create open lanes for shots or passes to players in prime scoring areas.

5. Backdoor Plays:

• Setup: While the puck is on one side, a player sneaks in from the opposite side towards the net.
• Objective: Catch the defenders off-guard with a quick pass to the backdoor player for a high-quality scoring chance.

6. Screen the Goaltender:

• Objective: With fewer defenders, it’s easier to position a player directly in front of the goaltender to screen their view. This tactic increases the chances of scoring from point shots.

7. Utilize the Point Shot:

• Objective: With two players at the blue line, utilize their shooting abilities. Quick passes between these players can open up shooting lanes, especially if the three defenders are drawn out of position.

8. Rebounds and Second Chances:

• Objective: With a two-man advantage, there should always be a player ready to pounce on rebounds. Shots should be aimed to produce rebounds, and players should be ready to capitalize on second-chance opportunities.

9. Patience:

• Objective: While there’s an urgency to score, it’s also essential to be patient. Wait for the defenders to make mistakes or get out of position, then exploit those openings.

10. Practice Set Plays:

• Objective: Teams can have set plays designed specifically for 5-on-3 situations. These plays can be practiced and deployed during games to catch the defense off guard.

Summary

A 5-on-3 power play is a golden opportunity to score, and teams should have specific strategies and tactics prepared for these situations.

By utilizing the numerical advantage, creating high-quality scoring chances, and being patient, teams can significantly increase their chances of converting on a two-man advantage.

Power Play Strategies & Tactics for 4-on-3

A 4-on-3 power play typically arises during overtime in leagues that use 3-on-3 overtime formats, or during specific penalty situations in regular play.

Given the open ice, it’s crucial to exploit the space and create high-quality scoring chances.

Here are some strategies and tactics for a 4-on-3 power play:

1. Diamond Formation:

• Setup: One player at the top (usually a defenseman with a strong shot), two players on the half-boards or face-off circles, and one player in front of the net.
• Objective: This setup allows for quick puck movement around the perimeter, creating shooting lanes and options for cross-ice passes.

2. Triangle with a High Slot Presence:

• Setup: One player at the blue line, two players on the half-boards, and one player in the high slot.
• Objective: The high slot player can act as a pivot for passes, take shots, or quickly distribute the puck to the wings, creating multiple threats for the defense.

3. Quick Puck Movement:

• Objective: With more open ice, it’s essential to move the puck quickly. This forces the three defenders to shift positions, opening up lanes for shots or passes.

4. Utilize the Point Shot:

• Objective: With fewer players on the ice, there’s more room for the player at the point to take a shot. Quick passes to this player can catch defenders out of position, creating clear shooting lanes.

5. Screen and Tip:

• Objective: Position a player in front of the goaltender to screen shots from the point and to deflect pucks. With fewer defenders, it’s harder for the penalty-killing team to clear players from the front of the net.

6. Cross-Ice Passes:

• Objective: Use the width of the ice to stretch the defense. Quick cross-ice passes can open up one-timers and catch the goaltender moving laterally.

7. Patience:

• Objective: While there’s a natural urgency to capitalize on the man advantage, it’s also essential to wait for the right opportunity. Over-forcing plays can lead to turnovers and potential counterattacks.

8. Rebounds and Second Chances:

• Objective: Ensure players are ready to jump on rebounds. With more space on the ice, there’s a higher likelihood of getting to loose pucks and converting on second-chance opportunities.

9. Isolate a Defender:

• Objective: Use quick passes to isolate one of the three defenders, creating a mini 2-on-1 situation. This can lead to high-quality scoring chances as the isolated defender is forced to choose between challenging the puck carrier or covering the pass.

10. Practice Set Plays:

• Objective: Have specific plays designed for 4-on-3 situations. These can be rehearsed and used during games to exploit known defensive tendencies or to create confusion.

Summary

A 4-on-3 power play offers a unique advantage with more open ice.

By employing these strategies and tactics, teams can maximize their chances of scoring.

As always, understanding the strengths and tendencies of both your players and the opposition can further refine and enhance these strategies.

Power Play Drills

Here are some power play drills to practice:

Point-to-Point Passing

• Objective: Improve passing between the defensemen at the blue line.
• Setup: Two defensemen at the points, passing the puck back and forth while forwards create traffic in front of the net.
• Variation: Add a shot on goal after a set number of passes.

Half-Board Rotation

• Objective: Improve puck movement and decision-making on the half-boards.
• Setup: Players on the half-boards pass the puck to each other, rotate positions, and look for passing lanes to the point or down low.

Low to High Movement

• Objective: Transition the puck from down low to the blue line for a shot.
• Setup: Forwards down low pass the puck to the defensemen at the point, who then take a shot on goal.

Cross-Ice Passing

• Objective: Improve cross-ice passing accuracy and timing.
• Setup: Players positioned on opposite half-boards pass the puck across the ice, trying to find lanes through defensive coverage.

Net Front Rebounds

• Objective: Practice scoring on rebounds.
• Setup: A defenseman or forward takes a shot from the point, while players in front of the net try to score on the rebound.

Overload Practice

• Objective: Practice the Overload formation and puck movement.
• Setup: Players overload one side of the ice, passing and rotating to find the best shooting lane.

Break-In Drill

• Objective: Improve power play entries into the offensive zone.
• Setup: Players start from the neutral zone and practice different strategies to enter the offensive zone with control of the puck.

Deflection Practice

• Objective: Improve players’ ability to deflect shots from the point.
• Setup: Players stand in front of the net while shots are taken from the blue line, trying to deflect them into the goal.

Box Penalty Kill vs. Power Play

• Objective: Simulate game situations with a power play against penalty killers.
• Setup: Four penalty killers set up in a box formation, trying to defend against five power play players.

Quick Release Shooting

• Objective: Improve players’ ability to quickly release shots.
• Setup: Players receive passes in the slot or from the half-boards and quickly shoot on goal without stickhandling.

Behind the Net Play

• Objective: Utilize the space behind the net to create scoring opportunities.
• Setup: Players pass the puck behind the net, looking for teammates in front or at the points.

Zone Movement

• Objective: Improve players’ movement and positioning within the offensive zone.
• Setup: Players move around the offensive zone, rotating positions and passing to maintain puck possession.

How Often Should You Practice the Power Play?

The frequency with which a team should practice the penalty kill (PK) depends on several factors, including the team’s current performance in penalty killing situations, the level of play, the frequency of games, and the specific challenges faced by the team.

Here’s a general guideline on how often to practice the penalty kill:

1. Level of Play

• Youth and Amateur Teams: At these levels, it’s essential to establish a foundation. Practicing the PK once a week or every other practice can help players understand the basics and develop essential skills.
• High School and College Teams: As the level of play increases, so does the importance of special teams. Practicing the PK 2-3 times a week can be beneficial.
• Professional Teams: At the professional level, teams often have dedicated special teams practices. The PK might be practiced multiple times a week, especially if the team is struggling in this area.

2. Team’s Current Performance

• Struggling PK: If a team is consistently allowing power play goals against, it’s a clear sign that more frequent PK practices are needed. This could mean dedicating a significant portion of several practices a week until improvements are seen.
• Successful PK: If a team is performing well on the penalty kill, they might maintain their routine but should still practice regularly to stay sharp and address any minor issues.

3. Frequency of Games

• Dense Game Schedule: During periods with many games in a short time, there might be limited practice time. In such cases, it’s essential to prioritize and balance practicing different aspects, including the PK.
• Off-Season or Breaks: During off-season training camps or breaks in the schedule, teams can take the opportunity to have more in-depth PK practices, refining strategies and working on specific scenarios.

4. Specific Challenges

If a team identifies specific challenges, such as difficulty clearing the puck or issues with positioning, they should allocate more time to address these areas in practice.

5. Balancing with Other Aspects

While the penalty kill is crucial, it’s also essential to balance its practice with other aspects of the game, such as power play, even-strength play, face-offs, and individual skill development.

How Often Should You Convert the Power Play?

The conversion rate of a power play, often referred to as the “power play percentage,” is a critical metric in hockey.

It represents the percentage of times a team scores a goal while on a power play.

The ideal conversion rate can vary based on the league, level of play, and era, but here’s a general overview:

1. NHL Standards:

• Historically, in the NHL, a power play percentage of 20% or higher is considered good. Teams that consistently convert at or above this rate are typically among the more successful power play units in the league.
• Elite NHL teams, or those with particularly potent power play units, might achieve conversion rates of 25% or even higher in a given season.

2. Other Professional Leagues:

• In other professional leagues around the world, a conversion rate of 15-20% is generally seen as respectable. The exact “good” percentage can vary based on the overall level of play and the specific league.

3. Amateur and Youth Hockey:

• In amateur and youth hockey, the variability can be much higher due to disparities in skill levels. A good power play percentage might range from 10% at lower levels to 25% or higher at elite youth levels.

4. Factors Influencing Conversion Rate:

• Talent and Skill Level: Teams with skilled players, especially those who excel in shooting, passing, and offensive positioning, will naturally have a higher conversion rate.
• Coaching and Strategy: A well-designed power play strategy that exploits the weaknesses of opposing penalty kill units can significantly boost conversion rates.
• Opposition’s Penalty Kill: Teams facing opponents with strong penalty killing units and goaltenders will naturally have a harder time converting on the power play.

5. Contextual Considerations:

• Era and Rule Changes: Over different eras of hockey, rule changes and shifts in playing style can influence what’s considered a good power play percentage. For instance, during the NHL’s “Dead Puck Era” in the late 1990s and early 2000s, scoring was down across the league, which impacted power play conversion rates.
• Game Situations: The importance of converting a power play can vary based on the game situation. For example, converting a power play late in a tied game can be more impactful than converting one in a game where a team is leading or trailing by a significant margin.

Summary:

While a power play conversion rate of around 20% is a good benchmark in many professional settings, the ideal rate can vary widely based on numerous factors.

Teams should always strive to improve their power play efficiency, as capitalizing on these opportunities can be the difference in tight games and crucial moments.

The Formula Behind The Edmonton Oilers Lethal Power Play

Case Study: Barry Trotz Era Washington Capitals’ Power Play Strategy

The Washington Capitals, one of the most successful teams in the National Hockey League (NHL), have consistently had one of the most effective power play units in recent years.

Their power play strategy revolves around utilizing their star players’ strengths and creating scoring opportunities through quick puck movement and accurate shooting.

Under the guidance of head coach Barry Trotz, the Capitals have employed the Umbrella power play formation as their primary strategy.

This formation allows their skilled players, such as Alex Ovechkin and Nicklas Backstrom, to utilize their powerful shots from the point and create scoring chances for their teammates.

Additionally, the Capitals’ power play unit focuses on maintaining possession of the puck and creating traffic in front of the net.

This strategy not only increases their chances of scoring but also forces the opposing team’s penalty killers to be more passive, opening up passing lanes and shooting opportunities.

As a result of their effective power play strategies, the Washington Capitals have consistently ranked among the top teams in power play efficiency, often capitalizing on a high percentage of their power play opportunities.

Q&A – Power Play (PP) Strategies in Hockey

1. What is a power play in hockey?

A power play in hockey occurs when one team has a numerical advantage on the ice due to a penalty being assessed to the opposing team.

The team with the power play has more players on the ice than their opponents.

2. How long does a power play last?

A power play typically lasts for two minutes, or until the team with the power play scores a goal.

However, if the opposing team commits another penalty during the power play, the time is extended.

3. How many players are on the ice during a power play?

The team with the power play has five skaters on the ice, including one goaltender.

The opposing team has four skaters and one goaltender.

4. What are the main objectives of a power play?

The main objectives of a power play are to create scoring opportunities, maintain possession of the puck, and ultimately score a goal while the opposing team is short-handed.

5. How do power play strategies differ from regular game strategies?

Power play strategies differ from regular game strategies as they focus on taking advantage of the numerical advantage on the ice.

Power play strategies often involve specific formations and tactics designed to create scoring opportunities.

6. Can teams use different power play strategies?

Yes, teams can use different power play strategies based on their strengths, the strengths of their opponents, and the specific game situation.

Coaches often adapt their strategies to exploit the weaknesses of the opposing penalty killers.

7. How important is communication during a power play?

Communication is crucial during a power play as it allows players to coordinate their movements, make quick decisions, and execute plays effectively.

Clear communication ensures that players are on the same page and can take advantage of scoring opportunities.

8. What role do special teams coaches play in power play strategies?

Special teams coaches play a vital role in developing and implementing power play strategies.

They analyze opponents’ penalty killing strategies, identify weaknesses, and devise tactics to exploit them.

They also work closely with players to improve their skills and decision-making during power play situations.

9. How do penalty killers try to disrupt power play strategies?

Penalty killers try to disrupt power play strategies by pressuring the puck carrier, blocking passing lanes, and clearing the puck out of their defensive zone.

They aim to force turnovers and limit the power play team’s time and space to create scoring opportunities.

10. What are some common mistakes teams make during power plays?

Some common mistakes teams make during power plays include being too predictable in their puck movement, not creating enough traffic in front of the net, and failing to adjust their strategies based on the opposing penalty killers’ tactics.

These mistakes can lead to missed scoring opportunities and even shorthanded goals for the opposing team.

11. How do power play strategies evolve over time?

Power play strategies evolve over time as teams analyze and adapt to new defensive tactics employed by their opponents.

Coaches and players constantly study game footage, identify trends, and develop new strategies to counteract the evolving penalty killing strategies.

12. Are power play strategies more effective in certain game situations?

Power play strategies can be more effective in certain game situations, such as when a team is trailing by a goal or during critical moments of a game.

Scoring a power play goal in these situations can significantly impact the outcome of the game and provide a momentum shift for the team with the power play.

13. How do power play strategies differ between different leagues and levels of play?

Power play strategies can differ between different leagues and levels of play based on the skill level of the players, the style of play, and the specific rules and regulations of each league.

Strategies that work effectively in one league may not be as successful in another.

14. Can penalty killers score goals during a power play?

Yes, penalty killers can score goals during a power play.

If the team with the power play loses possession of the puck or makes a mistake, the penalty killers can create scoring opportunities and potentially score shorthanded goals.

15. How can teams improve their power play efficiency?

Teams can improve their power play efficiency by practicing their strategies, improving their puck movement and passing accuracy, creating traffic in front of the net, and studying opponents’ penalty killing strategies to exploit weaknesses.

Regular communication and coordination among players are also essential for success.

16. What are the top 3 power play formations?

Top 3 Power Play Formations:

1. Umbrella Formation: Resembles an umbrella shape, allowing for quick puck movement and creating shooting lanes.
   • Advantages: Multiple passing options, quick puck movement, and shooting lanes.
   • Disadvantages: Can be predictable and requires strong communication.
2. Diamond Formation: Players are positioned in a diamond shape, providing multiple passing and shooting options.
   • Advantages: Passing options in all directions and multiple shooting options.
   • Disadvantages: Requires strong communication and can be vulnerable to aggressive penalty killing.
3. Overload Formation: Focuses on overloading one side of the ice.
   • Advantages: Numerical advantage on one side and can confuse penalty killers.
   • Disadvantages: Vulnerable to counterattacks and requires precise execution.

17. What are some common power play formations?

Common Power Play Formations:

• Umbrella Formation
  • Commonly used in hockey.
  • Positions players in an umbrella shape.
  • Allows for quick puck movement and shooting lanes.
  • Advantages: Multiple passing options and shooting lanes.
  • Disadvantages: Can be predictable and requires strong communication.
• Diamond Formation
  • Popular power play strategy.
  • Players positioned in a diamond shape.
  • Allows for quick puck movement and multiple passing options.
  • Advantages: Passing options in all directions and multiple shooting options.
  • Disadvantages: Requires strong communication and can be vulnerable to aggressive penalty killing.
• Overload Formation
  • Focuses on overloading one side of the ice.
  • Three players positioned on one side, with the remaining player on the weak side.
  • Advantages: Numerical advantage on one side and can confuse penalty killers.
  • Disadvantages: Vulnerable to counterattacks and requires precise execution.
• 1-3-1 Formation
  • One player at the point, three across the middle, and one in front of the net.
  • Advantages: Versatile and provides a balanced attack.
  • Disadvantages: Requires precise passing and vulnerable to aggressive penalty killing.
• Spread Formation
  • Two players at the blue line, two on the half-boards, and one in front.
  • Advantages: Spreads out the defense and is adaptable.
  • Disadvantages: Vulnerable to quick counterattacks.
• Box+1 Formation
  • Four players form a box with one floating in the middle.
  • Advantages: Floating player creates confusion for the defense.
  • Disadvantages: Requires strong communication and can be predictable.
• Two Defensemen High Formation
  • Two defensemen at the blue line with three forwards down low.
  • Advantages: Strong point shots and quick puck movement.
  • Disadvantages: Less offensive pressure from the blue line and vulnerable to breakaways.
• Net Front Presence
  • Emphasizes players’ positioning in front of the net.

Summary

Power play strategies play a crucial role in hockey, providing teams with an opportunity to score goals while the opposing team is short-handed.

The Umbrella, Diamond, and Overload power play formations are commonly used strategies that allow for quick puck movement, multiple passing options, and scoring opportunities.

Teams like the Washington Capitals have demonstrated the effectiveness of well-executed power play strategies, consistently ranking among the top teams in power play efficiency.

Communication, adaptability, and the ability to exploit weaknesses in the opposing penalty killers’ tactics are key factors in successful power play strategies.

By implementing and refining these strategies, teams can maximize their chances of scoring during power play situations and gain a competitive edge in the game of hockey.