ABOUT THIS EPISODE
In the third episode of this Built From Steel Podcast mini-series, Coach Eric covers positional play for centermen, from acting as a third defenceman in the defensive zone to protecting middle ice, supporting battles, and sorting out coverage when the puck changes sides.
He also breaks down getting underneath the puck on breakouts, creating short passing options and speed, staying connected through the neutral zone, and shifting into F1, F2, or F3 in the offensive zone. The episode closes with faceoffs and the responsibility that starts as soon as the puck drops.
Key Moments
4:30 – Third-defenceman responsibilities in the defensive zone
7:00 – Protecting the middle of the ice
11:00 – Supporting a defensive-zone corner battle
15:30 – Moving through the middle when the puck switches sides
19:00 – Reading the play as the defensive-zone quarterback
23:20 – Common defensive-zone mistakes for centermen
26:15 – Getting underneath the puck on breakouts
29:00 – Creating short passing lanes and support
33:00 – Questions to ask when supporting a breakout
35:00 – Staying low and connected in the neutral zone
40:00 – Forechecking inside-out in the neutral zone
44:00 – Forward roles on entries: F1, F2, and F3
48:00 – Faceoff responsibilities after the puck drops
Key Themes
• Centers protect middle ice and stay defensive-side rather than chase the puck.
• Patience below battles helps centermen cover loose pucks and dangerous ice.
• Getting underneath the puck creates short passing options and speed.
• Offensively, a centerman’s role shifts to F1, F2, or F3 as play becomes fluid.
• Faceoff responsibility continues with the read after the puck drops.
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The Built From Steel Podcast is a division of BioSteel Sports.
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