The center tries to win the draw back to D1 or D2. If the draw is lost F2 must resist the temptation to go out to the boardside defenseman and stay in the slot (figure 11.35). Center battles to get out to pressure the strong side defense. If the puck is passed D-D then F2 moves out in the shooting lane. D1 picks up the opposing center. D2 takes the inside forward. This alignment is the more traditional one used in a teams defensive zone but it does result in problems for the center getting out quickly.

This sound defensive alignment is not commonly used because it is one where the defense has to practice taking faceoffs. Have D1 take the draw and D2 line up beside the other team’s remaining forward (figure 11.36). On a lost draw, D1 and D2 take the other team’s forwards, and F1 and F2 go to the opposing defensemen. If the opposition lines up with three up on the draw, then D1 should look at shooting the puck through for F1 and F2 to go two on one.

After winning the face-off in four-on-four situations, teams should make it difficult for the opposition by having a wide option. C takes the draw and wins it back to D1 on the boards (figure 11.37). D1 lines up a few steps back from the hash marks on the boards side. D1 has the option to shoot with F2 at the net or pass to D2 for a one-timer shot. D1 and D2 should switch sides, making it easier for them to shoot.