First let�s review a few points. Remember a well-coordinated �hand-off� cuts down on the opponent�s forechecking efficiency, eliminates defensive confusion, trims quality scoring chances against, more goals for, resulting in more wins. It is imperative that the goaltender be consistent on where he leaves the puck, how he returns to the net, and with the terminology he and his defensemen use to communicate.

Now, let�s look at exchanges when pucks are shot �hard around� the boards. Remember that off-ice communication, discussing all situation possibilities and how to react, is as important as the on-ice communication which takes place during the game. In addition, the goaltender must be consistent on where he leaves the puck, how he returns to the net, and with the terminology he and the defenseman use to communicate.

The object of a �hard around� is to ensure that the attacking team can get the puck deep into the zone, keeping it away from the goaltender, and having the puck wind from (for example) the left to a streaking right wing. Offensive possession is gained and scoring chances ensue. This concept is used increasingly on a power play.

Photo 2

It is a major asset if the goaltender is quick and agile enough to get out and stop that hard-around blast.

In all hard-around situations, I like the goaltender to stop the puck in the middle of the back of the net (Photo 1). If he makes a mistake, the puck will probably hit the back of the net, and not come out in front.

The goaltender should then read which defenseman is coming back for the puck and from what side. The goaltender should pull the puck away from the wall (Photo 2), and quickly get out of the way. On most occasions, when there is some forechecking pressure, I like the goaltender to return to the net from the same side from which the puck came. The goalie should return close to the net (inside), with the defenseman picking up the puck via an �outside� route (Photo 3).

When the goaltender stops the puck, he really has several options.

� Leave the puck ... it�s the best option.

� If there is significant forechecking pressure, institute a set play where the defenseman peels off toward the corner, allowing the forechecker to approach the goalie. The goalie then chips the puck to the defenseman.

Photo 2

� Clear the puck around the boards to an open winger. Don�t move the puck too hard, or it will be cleared past your teammate.

� Clear the puck hard enough back around the boards, or up the glass to clear the zone.

Overall, as teams continue to dump the puck into the zone, goaltender-defense exchanges can have a major impact on the results of the game. l