Box Plus One Meaning in Ice Hockey

Box plus one is a strategy used during a penalty kill. Four players form a square while one player pressures the puck. This system combines zone defense with an active puck chasing style. The box protects the net while the extra player attacks. This pressure forces the offensive team to make very fast decisions. It is an aggressive way to play while being short handed. The team used a box plus one to force a turnover. This formation works best against teams that pass the puck slowly. The chasing player must be a very fast and smart skater. If the puck moves, the players rotate into a new box. This strategy can lead to shorthanded breakaway chances for the team. Constant communication is needed to keep the shape of the box.