3-on-3 Overtime: Why it Will Help the Avalanche
3-on-3 Overtime Tactics
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A new rule often brings change in playing style — and this one is no exception. As opposed to 3-on-5 or 3-on-4 penalty killing, the primary goal of 3-on-3 overtime lines is to score, not to defend the own net. Therefore, teams in the AHL generally went with two forwards and one defenseman.
With only six skaters on the ice, there is a lot of room for everyone. What that means is that all players playing in 3-on-3 overtime should be good puck-movers, passers and shooters, while also having enough defensive skill to defend.
Imagine it like this. Two forwards and one D-man are put out on the ice, but at the face-off, you have one player in the circle and two at the blue line. On offence, the puck and players move around so much that either one of the three players should be able to make offensive plays, while also being ready to play defense in case of a turnover. On defense, all three should know how to block passing lanes and shots, while being ready for a breakout.
Next: Avs 3-on-3 Units