Breakaway Meaning in Ice Hockey

A breakaway happens when a player skates alone toward the goalie. No defenders stand between the attacker and the net for this. The skater has a clear path to score a high goal. This situation usually starts with a fast pass or a turnover. The crowd often stands up in excitement during a breakaway play. The forward missed the breakaway after the puck rolled away fast. Quick hands help the player trick the goalie during the skate. Most players choose to deke or shoot the puck very hard. Defensemen try to catch the skater to prevent the clean shot. A breakaway is the best scoring chance in a hockey game. Goalies must stay patient to stop the incoming player from scoring. Scoring on a breakaway often changes the momentum of the game.