Improving Team Breakouts

A hockey coach from Ontaria, Canada asked a great question in our Ask The Coach section. He’s definitely my kind of coach, because he’s attempting to plan his next year’s practices now-ish. So, let’s give it a whirl…

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Hi Lance,

As the Head Coach for an Atoms AA team in Ontario, I know you’re in a pivotal role to shape young players’ skills and understanding of the game. One key area that can make a big difference in your team’s success next season, as you well know, is moving the puck effectively from your own end. It’s not just about skill, but about structure, decision-making, and teamwork.

One helpful approach is to incorporate puck retrieval and first pass drills into your practices. Try setting up drills where your defensemen retrieve pucks from behind the net under pressure and then make a quick, accurate first pass to a winger or centerman positioned at the hash marks or swinging through mid-zone. This kind of repetition simulates real game situations and helps players build confidence making decisions under pressure.

Another strong focus area is breakout scenarios. Practice different breakout patterns, like the “wheel,” “reverse,” and “quick up” — these terms typically refer to strategies or movements used by players, often in the context of breakouts or puck movement in the defensive zone. Use cones or markers to indicate positioning and take time to make sure each player understands their role in each type of breakout. Giving them more than one pattern to rely on builds adaptability when facing various types of opponent pressure….

1. The Wheel:
   The “wheel” is a breakout play where a defenseman carries the puck out of the defensive zone by skating along the boards, typically behind the net and up the side of the rink. The player “wheels” around the net, using speed and momentum to evade forecheckers and transition the puck into the neutral zone. It’s a simple, effective way to start an attack when there’s open ice and the defenseman has strong skating ability. Forwards usually support by providing passing options or clearing lanes ahead.
2. Reverse:
   The “reverse” involves a defenseman passing or handing off the puck to a teammate (often another defenseman or a forward) behind the net or along the boards, reversing the direction of play. Instead of skating the puck out directly (like in the wheel), the defenseman might fake a move one way, then quickly send the puck the opposite way to confuse or bypass the opposing forecheck. It’s a tactical play to open up space and create a cleaner breakout under pressure.
3. Quick Up:
   The “quick up” is a fast, direct breakout play where the puck is moved from the defensive zone to a forward with speed and minimal delay. Typically, a defenseman retrieves the puck and immediately passes it “up” the ice to a forward who’s already in motion, often near the blue line or in the neutral zone. The goal is to catch the opposing team off guard, avoiding their forecheck and setting up a rapid transition to offense. Timing and crisp passing are key here.

Small area games are a great tool too. Running 3-on-3 or 4-on-4 games in tight spaces encourages quick passing, constant movement, and communication. These games naturally reinforce the kind of quick decision-making and support that happens during real game situations.

It’s also helpful to work on position-specific skills. Defensemen should practice pivoting and transitioning the puck while under pressure. At the same time, forwards can work on receiving passes in stride and making a smooth transition up the ice.

Focusing on these individual pieces helps everything come together when the team is on the move.

Including video sessions in your routine can be a game-changer. Whether it’s clips from pro games or your own footage from past games where your team executed well, reviewing successful breakouts visually helps players see what works and how to replicate those actions on the ice.

Encouraging constant communication during play is vital. Players should always be aware of their options and help one another out vocally, which builds confidence and fluidity in transitions. Repetition is also key — implementing these drills consistently across practices will help the team develop muscle memory and strengthen their confidence. Don’t forget to provide constructive feedback along the way, pointing out what players are doing well while gently steering them toward improvement.

By weaving these strategies into your overall practice approach, your team will grow more comfortable and skilled at moving the puck out of their zone, giving you a strong foundation to build on all season long.

Best of luck, and enjoy the process of helping your players develop and thrive!

Best regards,
Coach Chic