Shooting is the one skill that separates strong players from true game-changers. After coaching thousands of players in my Online Hockey Training program, I can tell you this:

If you master these four shots, you can score from anywhere on the ice.

This guide breaks down each shot step-by-step with pro-level coaching cues and home-practice tips to help you build accuracy, power, and speed.

The Four Most Important Hockey Shots

Every elite scorer builds their offensive foundation using these four shots:

• Wrist Shot – Accuracy + control
• Slapshot – Maximum power
• Snapshot – Fastest release
• Backhand – Perfect for tight areas & deception

Let’s break each one down.

1. The Wrist Shot

Why It Works

The wrist shot is the most common scoring shot in hockey because it gives players unmatched accuracy and control. It’s reliable for breakaways, zone entries, and quick strikes from anywhere.

How to Execute

1. Shift weight to your back foot.
2. Cup the puck near that back foot.
3. Pull it forward with your top hand leading.
4. Let the stick flex naturally.
5. Snap your wrists while following through toward your target.

Pro Tip: Aim small. Pick corners—not the whole net—to develop consistent accuracy.

2. The Slapshot

Why It Works

The slapshot is your power move—ideal for long-range scoring or one-timers off passes.

How to Execute

1. Take a wide, stable stance.
2. Slide your lower hand down the stick.
3. Put the puck slightly ahead of your front foot.
4. Strike the ice just before the puck.
5. Follow through fully to transfer energy.

Pro Tip: Keep your head still and eyes locked on the puck—this improves power and accuracy instantly.

3. The Snapshot

Why It Works

The snapshot combines the accuracy of a wrist shot with the speed of a slapshot. It’s perfect when time and space disappear.

How to Execute

1. Start balanced and ready.
2. Drop your bottom hand slightly for leverage.
3. Load the stick by pulling the puck in.
4. Snap forward quickly with a short follow-through.

Pro Tip: Practice while moving—players rarely get snapshots from a standstill in real games.

4. The Backhand

Why It Works

The backhand shot is your secret weapon—goalies see it less, read it poorly, and react slower to it.

How to Execute

1. Keep a low, stable stance.
2. Hold the puck slightly behind your body.
3. Use the backside curve to guide the puck.
4. Lift or sweep depending on the target.

Pro Tip: Practice quick backhands in tight areas—this is where the shot becomes truly lethal.

FAQs: Shooting Like a Pro

How often should I practice these shots?

Work each shot 2–3 times per week. Focus on reps over power—quality beats force.

Which shot should beginners learn first?

The wrist shot. It builds mechanics and confidence that transfer to all other shots.

What’s the most difficult shot to master?

The snapshot—because timing matters more than strength.

Can I train shooting at home?

Absolutely. A shooting pad, a net, and 10 minutes a day can transform your shot.

How can I increase my shot power?

Improve stick flex, build arm/wrist strength, and perfect your weight transfer.

Ready to Transform Your Shot?

If you want step-by-step video drills to sharpen your shot, improve your hands, and map out exactly what to train each week, check out:

Online Hockey Training – Full Access Programs

Train smart. Train consistently. And start scoring more.