Founded in 1963 in Penticton, BC, Okanagan Hockey Group (OHG) is the world's longest-running hockey camp, celebrating over 60 years of excellence. We offer elite hockey camps and development programs in Canada, the U.S., and Europe. OHG includes the Okanagan Hockey Academy (OHA), the first hockey-specific sports school recognized by BC Hockey and Hockey Canada, with locations in Penticton, Edmonton, Ontario, Colorado, and Austria. Our programs, including the WHL Combines, cater to players from grassroots to professional levels, with alumni thriving in the NHL, WHL, PWHL, Junior A, NCAA, and beyond.
Jake bean is definitely my favorite hockey player after Tristen Robins Morgan Geekie Stelio Mattheos Conor Geekie and Jiri Patera! He's just unreal to watch and I think he'll make the NHL soon! Definitely my favorite Checkers defenseman. Super skilled that's for sure!
Fair point by the NHLer, however he does not answer the question. I would argue that learning to stick handle whilst skating backwards has merit in practice. Why? Simply, because developing a complex skill will make you better and more confident in the simple skills. Here is my answer to Chad, from a hobby player about 20+ leagues away from the NHL. Firstly, practice skating backwards in different ways and on different edges. Start slowly, and repeat, and each time lower your centre of gravity, and gradually increase speed. Secondly, integrate moving the stick without puck. Thirdly, add the puck. You will notice that either your speed, form, or stick-handling accuracy will suffer. However, with repetition all three areas will improve. Fourthly, add simple stick-handling movements into the mix, all the time whilst skating backwards. Finally, add more complex stick-handling movements. My prediction is that in a game situation, your skating will be much smoother, and you will have much more confidence moving the puck simply on the backhand, without fancy stick-handling. Skating backwards with the puck is one of the most satisfying skills to have!
He raises some great points and awesome advice for younger players. When it comes to skating backwards and carrying the puck the most important thing to remember is to roll the wrist of your top hand. This turns the blade, allowing you to cup the puck and pull it back towards you. You can do it on the forehand, but it's much easier to do it on your backhand while skating backwards.
