How to Screen a Goalie Properly in Hockey

Screening the goalie is an important offensive tactic in hockey that helps create scoring chances. A screen happens when an attacking player positions themselves in front of the opposing goalie to block their view of the puck. When a goalie cannot clearly see the shot coming, it becomes much harder for them to react and make a save.

Many goals in hockey are scored because the goalie was screened at the right moment.

Position Yourself in Front of the Net

To set a good screen, players usually position themselves directly in front of the goalie near the crease. Standing in this area forces the goalie to look around the player in order to track the puck.

The goal is not necessarily to touch the goalie but to remain in their line of sight so the puck becomes harder to see.

Keep Your Stick on the Ice

When screening a goalie, it’s important to keep your stick ready. Shots from the point or the blue line often create rebounds or deflections, and players screening the goalie are in a great position to redirect the puck into the net.

Many goals happen when a player tips the puck while screening the goalie.

Stay Moving

Standing completely still makes it easier for the goalie to look around you. Slight movement—such as shifting your position or adjusting your stance—can make it much harder for the goalie to track the puck.

Small adjustments can keep the goalie guessing and increase the chances of a goal.

Avoid Goaltender Interference

Players must be careful not to make illegal contact with the goalie while screening. If an attacking player interferes with the goalie’s ability to move freely, the goal may be disallowed.

This rule is strictly enforced at all levels of hockey, including the National Hockey League.

Why Screening Is So Effective

Goalies rely heavily on their vision to stop pucks traveling at high speeds. By blocking the goalie’s view even slightly, a screen can dramatically increase the chance that a shot finds its way into the net.

For this reason, teams often place players in front of the crease during offensive zone pressure to create more scoring opportunities.