What is the trap?

Question

As in the defensive maneuver. I sort of get it but not quite.

Answer 1

Simply put it is a system where instead of forechecking, the forwards drop back into the neutral zone and try to force the play towards the boards. They are in essence trying to ensnare the puck carrier into a trap where he has no outlet to pass to. The idea is to create turnovers and counterattack quickly.

Often referred to as the neutral zone trap. New Jersey or Minnesota were considered the leaders of this most boring style of hockey. Edmonton (shock! horror!) even used it vs. Detroit in rd. 1 of last year's playoffs.

The new NHL rules have lessened the trap's effectiveness a bit as the trap relied a lot of clutching and grabbing (at least the teams less schooled in skating and ability to steer guys towards the boards).

Answer 2

TRAP:
The term originates with a defensive system called the "neutral zone trap," but is now used to describe any passive, defense-first strategy. If the game you're watching is dull, chances are one team is playing a variation of the trap. Trapping teams don't pursue opponents, don't attack the puck and generally don't seem very interested in scoring.

It works something like this: Team A has the puck in its own zone and is starting an attack. Team B - the trapping team - retreats back to form a staggered line in the neutral zone (between the bluelines). When the Team A puck carrier nears center ice he finds little room to maneuver or make a safe pass. This often forces him to ice the puck, lose it, or try a high-risk pass. If they can force a turnover, the trappers of Team B might get a good scoring chance going back the other way.

Answer 3

the guy above me has the right answer.....well put

Answer 4

yeah what they said!!