Coaches: How much do you vary your defensive systems in-season?

[pgfan66]

When the Edmonton Oilers went from Woodcroft to Knoblauch last season, their defensive systems were the main talking point. I don't think that topic has ever had as much attention before, although it's an integral part of how a team plays. So I was wondering: As coaches, how much do you vary your defensive systems in-season, whether it be to adapt to the opponent or change things up when it's not going well.

It's normal to make small tweaks and adjustments based on the opponent, like always wanting to keep two players net-front, overloading more or less against certain opponents, or changing how closely weak-side opponents should be guarded in man coverage. But do/would you make bigger changes like going from a pure zone to a hybrid, e.g. when you know your opponent likes to bring three or four guys up high?

Appreciate your thoughts!

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[oldunclehue]

I coach U15AA hockey, during the season our defensive zone coverage didn't change. But forecheck would be the only think we change depending on the game, score, other team. From a 2-1-2 to a 1-2-2 or a 1-3-1 usually just to slow down opposition. Otherwise I don't know many teams that in minor hockey would change the defensive zone structure.

 

[Primary Assist]

This depends on the age and skill level of the players. My experience is with the varsity level of US high school, and I've found that players can take almost a full season to really understand and execute the defensive structure. This varies by player too, of course, but it seems like a simple rule of thumb.

So if you are expecting to change your structure mid season, just keep in mind that you likely won't see the real benefit of this change til later on. Especially if your schedule is filled with more games than practices at this point. You will need all of classroom, video, and on-ice time to make the change successfully.

My guess is that you're unhappy with the results of the current structure if you're looking to change, but it's possible (if not probable) the actual on-ice product as players get accustomed to the new system will be worse than the status quo.

Edit - I am also a big, believer in John Wooden's coaching philosophy of sticking to your own game plan (within reason) rather than tailoring your style of play and expectations based your opponent. You will know your team's strength and weaknesses much better than another team's, so if you try too hard to play their game they will beat you with their own experience.

This isn't to discourage you from making the small tweaks you mentioned in the OP (like adjusting for different PP/PK setups) but changing from zone to hybrid to (worst of all) man on man would be a really big change.