A Follow-up to "Chasing-out"

Right after posting my ideas on Chasing-out last month, I was asked if there are ever times when it’s okay for a forechecker to chase a puckcarrer out from behind the safety of his net.  Great question, because it gives me the chance to share even more extremely important checking principles…

I think the short answer provided by most high level coaches would be that, “You’d better KNOW you’re going to be able to get that guy — or the puck!”

But, here’s a better, more detailed explanation, and it has to do with how much a checker should respect a given puckcarrier…

• Obviously, there’s a huge difference in whether a puckcarrier is facing the checker or has his back to him.  For, if the offensive man is turned away, he usually has fewer escape options, and he can’t be as tricky from this position.  In contrast, the defensive player MUST respect a man who faces at him (and also has the next thing going for him).
• For, just as obviously, an offensive player has to really be respected if he is facing up-ice and in good control of the puck.

I might mention that conditions can change in an instant, though.  I mean, the offensive player might have both things going for him one moment, which calls for the checker to act conservatively.  Just as suddenly, however, he could turn his back or fumble the puck, either being a signal for the defensive player to pounce right on him.