THE SLAP SHOT
The Slap Shot is usually the hardest shot in hockey when it comes to generating puck speed. A good slap shot includes proper weight transfer from the back of the foot to the front foot, combined with downward pressure when following through. The stick blade typically strikes the ice first, 12 – 18 inches behind the puck, creating a flex in the shaft, then carrying both the power gained from the weight transfer and the flex of the stick. When the stick blade connects with the puck, energy is transferred into propelling it towards the target. Players usually wind-up by raising their sticks high behind them in the air before taking a slap shot. Good shooters can take a slap shot with minimal load which allows them to get their shot off much quicker, still allowing them to get power behind their slap shot.
Tim Turk’s slap shot motto is….LESS LOAD, MORE EXPLODE!
THE WRIST SHOT
This type of shot is way more deceptive and has a much quicker release than a slap shot. Releasing a shot quickly and accurately with deception can make it very challenging for goalies. There is no need for a big wind up / load with a wrist shot. It can be taken with your feet moving or even while in full skating stride (which is what coaches look for). Players have more control over where the puck is going when taking a wrist shot. Plenty of repetition with proper technique can develop a better, quicker release. The energy is produced when you press down on the shaft of your stick with your power hand, followed by snapping or rotating your wrist in a forward motion which generates more spin on the puck. Locking your power arm towards your target will also allow you to generate more power and allow you to aim the puck more accurately.
