Jim’s Intro to Drop Pass
Hi folks, Jim here, the only commentator who once tried a drop pass on a breakaway. When the referee finally caught up with me, he whispered, “Jim, you can 27t pick up the puck, run with it, and then drop it to pass. That 27s not a drop pass.”
What is a drop pass?
A drop pass is when a player leaves or taps the puck backward to a trailing teammate, often while skating forward. It 27s a timing-based play that relies on surprise and positioning to create space for the trailing player to shoot, pass, or continue the attack.
How does it work?
The drop pass relies on coordination, awareness, and timing:
- Puck Carrier Awareness: Know exactly where your teammate is behind you.
- Soft Release: Gently leave or tap the puck straight back into the teammate 27s path.
- Angle and Speed: Control how far and fast the puck travels. Too hard and it becomes a turnover.
- Body Language: Sell the idea you 27re continuing forward to draw defenders in.
- Timing the Trail: The trailing player must be close enough to collect the puck in stride.
- Clear Communication: A subtle signal or shared awareness between teammates makes it work.
How do you make good decisions with it?
- Use It When Trailed Closely: A drop pass is most effective when a teammate is in close pursuit with open ice ahead.
- Avoid Traffic: Dropping the puck into a crowd is an easy way to hand over possession.
- Sell the Fake: The better you disguise the drop, the more defenders commit forward.
- Know Your Teammate’s Rhythm: Trust and chemistry make this play dangerous.
- Don’t Overuse It: A well-timed drop can fool defenders, but predictable drops lead to turnovers.
How do you master it?
Mastering the drop pass requires timing drills and trust-building exercises. Players practice skating in pairs, learning to read each other 27s spacing and pace. Controlled scrimmages and set plays help develop the instinct for when and how to use it effectively.
What does it look like when done right?
A great drop pass looks smooth and invisible to defenders. The puck is left perfectly in the trailing skater 27s path, allowing them to pick it up in full stride while defenders scramble to recover.
Commentator’s Corner
Jim’s Take
A perfect drop pass is like pulling the tablecloth out without moving the dishes. When it works, it 27s beautiful.
Parent Tip
Encourage communication and awareness between players. Trust and timing are what make this play click.
Player Tip
Glance, signal subtly, and keep the puck soft. Precision and chemistry make the drop pass dangerous.
A Final Thought
The drop pass thrives on deception and timing. Master it, and you 27ll create plays that catch defenders flat-footed and open up high-danger chances in an instant.
