Jim’s Intro to Tip-Ins / Deflections
Hi folks, Jim here, the only commentator who once had to be conditioned not to say, “It wasn’t me,” every time a coach talked about deflections.
What are tip-ins and deflections?
Tip-ins and deflections are techniques where a player redirects an incoming shot with their stick to change its direction, usually right in front of the net. The goal is to fool the goalie by altering the puck’s trajectory at the last possible moment, often by just a few inches.
How does it work?
The skill depends on timing, positioning, and a light touch:
- Net-Front Position: Plant yourself near the crease where shots are coming through.
- Stick Angle: Present the blade as a target, angled slightly to redirect the puck downward or sideways.
- Soft Hands: Don’t swing. Just let the puck hit the blade and guide it.
- Timing: Make contact right as the puck passes, adjusting the blade angle to control direction.
- Eyes Up: Track the shot’s line carefully while maintaining awareness of defenders.
- Body Position: Stay balanced to absorb contact while maintaining control of your stick.
How do you make good decisions with it?
- Pick Good Shooting Lanes: Work with your shooter to find lanes through traffic.
- Avoid High Sticks: Keep your stick below the crossbar to make legal deflections.
- Screen and Tip: Combine effective screening with subtle stick work to maximize chances.
- Don’t Overreach: Stay compact and make controlled redirections instead of lunging.
- Communicate: Let your teammates know you’re set up for a tip so they can aim accordingly.
How do you master it?
Mastering tip-ins and deflections takes repetition and touch drills. Players practice in front of the net with pucks coming from different angles and speeds, focusing on soft, precise contact. Good hand-eye coordination is essential, and so is learning to read shots quickly.
What does it look like when done right?
A perfect deflection looks subtle but devastating. The puck glances off the blade, changes direction just enough, and sneaks past a goalie who’s already committed to the original line.
Commentator’s Corner
Jim’s Take
The best deflections are like sleight of hand. You blink, and suddenly the puck’s in the net, and even the goalie has no idea what happened.
Parent Tip
Encourage players to develop their hand-eye coordination away from the rink too. Simple stick and ball games go a long way.
Player Tip
Focus on soft hands, stick control, and timing. Let the puck do the work, not a big swing.
A Final Thought
Tip-ins and deflections win battles at the net. Master them, and you’ll turn ordinary shots into game-changing goals right under the goalie’s nose.
