Washington CapitalsHockeyLike the Pros

Offensive Zone Face-Off — Caps Attack

Create traffic above the dot, activate down the wall, and attack the net.

Play breakdown video

Use this offensive zone face-off play

This offensive zone face-off play is built around a win or tie up on the draw and quick interior support above the dot. The Capitals look to pull defenders high and inside, activate down the wall, and use Ovechkin's net drive to generate a high-danger scoring chance.

Draw win and support

The left-handed center wins direct or ties up so a winger can kick the puck back to the wall side defenseman. Wings and defense move quickly into their lanes so that they can attack within three seconds of the puck drop.

Player responsibilities

  • Right winger drives low to be the first touch and run light interference, then release to cover point.
  • Left winger drives above the right winger as tight to them as possible so that their chasing opponent is cut off
  • Center quickly drives high middle to be a third man high.
  • Left defense activates down the wall and finds a seam to pass to the left winger.

OZFO - Caps attack

Coaching notes

Position over possession

This isn't just a foot race, players must get inside position, establish body position, cutting through opponent's hands, before they get to their assignment.

Face-Off ready

When a player is face-off, they are on their toes, stick over top of opponent's stick, and ready to explode on puck drop.

Use this drill to teach good face-off habits

This drill simulates a face-off battle between two wingers or a winger and a defenseman.

Quick answers

What does OZFO mean in hockey?
OZFO means offensive zone face-off: a set play that starts when the puck is dropped in the attacking end.
What is the Capitals OZFO attack trying to create?
The play aims to win or tie the draw, pull coverage high, activate down the wall, and open a seam for a net drive and a high-danger chance.
How do I add this Capitals OZFO system to GAME4?
Click the “Add” button to copy the board into your library, then add the drill and system to your practice plan and share it with your team.