Practice Like a PRO 5.2

In this edition of Practice Like a Pro 5.2, our teammate Mitch Giguere dives into five position-specific drills from Team Canada U20 - perfect for the most exciting time of the year, with hockey in full swing across the NHL, minor leagues, Europe, NCAA, and beyond.

Each drill is designed to deliver a high number of quality reps while sharpening 2–3 key details that matter most at any level. From quick decisions on the breakout to deceptive rush plays and goaltender warm-ups, these drills help players train with purpose and practice like pros. With dedicated focus areas for forwards (F), defensemen (D), and goaltenders (G), each drill builds habits that translate directly into game performance.

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Each drill below has a video attached - click on the drill graphic to see the video!

1. Practice Like A Pro 5.2 – PSD D Scoring Option

This drill is excellent for getting your defensemen active, with plenty of reps and variety. Today’s game demands defensemen to be more involved offensively and comfortable making quick decisions with the puck. Once players understand all three options, you can add a layer of unpredictability by running them out of order. This forces D1 to read and react to D2, sharpening decision-making and communication.

2. Practice Like A Pro 5.2 – PSD D Loose Puck Breakout Routes

This drill focuses on escaping pressure efficiently and executing clean breakouts. Small details, like lifting a stick to win a puck, should become habits. With multiple options, you can adapt this drill in many ways to challenge your D to handle pressure and improve decision-making. In a game, it simulates a rebound battle after a shot, followed by a one-on-one escape from the corner.

3. Practice Like A Pro 5.2 – PSF Look Offs

This rush drill teaches deception. Looking off a pass or shot can cause hesitation and chaos for defenders and goalies. It’s a skill players need to practice often. Goalies hate this drill—so you can even run it separately with your goalie coach.

4. Practice Like A Pro 5.2 – PSF Spin Off Backhand Shot

This drill develops offensive-zone turnovers and quick attacks. Hard tracking creates mistakes—most D aren’t ready for back pressure. When the puck is won, the defense scrambles. If another defender steps out, spin off and keep attacking the net to create offense.

5. Practice Like A Pro 5.2 – PSG The Box Drill 01

This is a simple but effective goalie warm-up drill. Every goalie, at any level, can use it to establish rhythm, find angles, and stay sharp. Having a consistent routine helps goalies settle in and stay focused from the start.

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These five drills sharpen position-specific skills through realistic, competitive scenarios. Whether you're working on puck movement, forechecking, or crease control, each drill builds habits that translate directly to the game. Train with purpose, practice like a pro.

Each blog in the series will feature drills tailored for forwards (F), defensemen (D), and goaltenders (G).

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