The Impact of Shooting Left or Right in Hockey

TLDRShooting left or right in hockey affects player comfort and performance. Most players shoot with their dominant hand on top of the stick. Right-shooting defensemen are more coveted for their offensive abilities. Catching with the right hand as a goalie is rare. There is no significant advantage to shooting left or right as a goalie. Left-shooting players have more options for one-handed moves. Left shots often use one-handed chips and pokes, while right shots rarely do. Overall, shooting left or right in hockey has subtle but noticeable differences in player performance.

Key insights

:ice_hockey_stick_and_puck:Most players shoot with their dominant hand on top of the stick

:muscle:Right-shooting defensemen are more coveted for their offensive abilities

:goal_net:Catching with the right hand as a goalie is rare

:question:There is no significant advantage to shooting left or right as a goalie

:hand:Left shots have more options for one-handed moves

Q&A

What hand should be on top of the stick for shooting left or right?

Most players have their dominant hand on top for better control and power.

Why are right-shooting defensemen more coveted?

Right-shooting defensemen have an advantage in offensive play and puck control on their forehand side.

Why is catching with the right hand rarer for goalies?

Catching with the right hand requires a different type of goalie glove and is less common among left-handed individuals.

Is there an advantage to shooting left or right as a goalie?

No, there is no significant advantage to shooting left or right as a goalie.

Why do left shots have more options for one-handed moves?

Left shots usually have their dominant hand on top, allowing for better puck control and maneuverability with one hand.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Introduction to shooting left or right in hockey

02:00Impact on player comfort and performance

04:30Advantages of right-shooting defensemen

07:30Rareness of catching with the right hand as a goalie

09:30No significant advantage to shooting left or right as a goalie

10:00More options for one-handed moves for left shots