The magic of backhand shot

by Shayan Zamani

Jan. 22, 2023

Goal AnalysisConnor McDavidShane WrightTeam Canada

Scoring a backhand goal in hockey can be a bit easier compared to a wrist shot or a slap shot, as it allows for more deception and control of the puck.

A backhand shot is taken by holding the stick with both hands and using a sweeping motion to shoot the puck with the back of the blade. This allows the player to quickly change the angle of the shot, making it more difficult for the goaltender to anticipate where the puck is going. Additionally, the backhand shot can be taken with more accuracy, as the blade of the stick is parallel to the ice when the shot is taken.

One key advantage of the backhand shot is that it can be used to surprise the goaltender. Since the majority of shots in hockey are taken with the forehand, goalies tend to be more prepared for a forehand shot, leaving them more vulnerable to a well-executed backhand shot. By catching the goaltender off guard, a player can increase their chances of scoring a goal.

Another advantage of the backhand shot is that it can be used to control the puck better. When taking a wrist shot or a slap shot, a player must release the puck quickly, limiting their ability to control its trajectory. With a backhand shot, the player has more time to aim and adjust the shot, resulting in a higher chance of scoring.

However, it's important to note that the backhand shot is not without its challenges. The sweeping motion of the backhand shot requires a player to have good hand-eye coordination, as well as strong upper body strength. A player must also have good timing and positioning to execute a successful backhand shot.

Here are two amazing goals that were scored in the past two weeks by two Canadian Captains.

In these two examples, both Shane Wright and Connor McDavid could first trick the defence men with their consistency and then both surprised the goalies with a backhand shot to the top of the roof.

In conclusion, scoring a backhand goal in hockey can be easier than a wrist shot or a slap shot, thanks to its deception and control. It can be used to surprise the goaltender and increase the chance of scoring, but it requires good hand-eye coordination and upper body strength to execute. With practice, the backhand shot can be a valuable asset for any hockey player looking to improve their goal-scoring abilities.