NHL Hockey- How are skating lines used in Hockey? (from a foreigner)?

Question

Hi guys. I'm a foreigner who's trying to understand Hockey the more I watch it. One thing I can't seem to grasp are the changing of the lines and the purpose of each line. I never know how long a line usually gets compared to other lines, or when it is suitable to choose, say, a 3rd line as opposed to a 4th line or a 2nd line.

From what I understand: Lines 1 and 2 = the scoring lines. (so 2 comes on when 1 needs a rest), and Lines 3 and 4 are generally the more defensive lines. Why would one choose a 3rd line over a 4th line? (etc)

Thank you. I'm really enjoying learning about this sport.

Answer 1

Lines generally refer to the forwards. There are usually 12 forwards dressed, 3 on each line. Thus, you have 4 lines. While you would obviously want every line to score as often as they can, it is generally the top two lines, as well as the third line that does the bulk of the scoring for any team (aside from the goal from a defenseman every now and then). The third line is generally what is referred to as the checking line. The fourth line can also be referred to as a checking line as well, but they usually get the least amount of ice time.



So to answer your questions, yes the top two lines are generally the scoring lines, but that doesn't mean the other two lines can't/don't score as well! You'll see the 3rd line vs. 1st line matchup from time to time, especially in the playoffs. Home teams get the last change before faceoffs, so if you see the opposing team bring out their top line, coaches generally send out their 3rd (checking) line. This line is thus tasked not necessarily to score, but to shut down the top line.



Hope that answers your question.

Answer 2

Ok, so there are four offensive lines and three defensive lines. The offensive lines range form line 1-4. As you said, lines one and two tend to be the more scoring lines, and lines three and four tend to be more defensive. There are three players on each offensive line a center, a left wing and a right wing. There are three defensive lines each ranging from most talented players to less talanted players. There are two players on each defensive line, a right derense and a left defense. Hope this helped!!!!

Answer 3

depending on the types of the lines you create mismatches.

So if you put out your hitting line vs their scoring line. they're trying to stop them in a different way other than a strictly defensive line.



or they might have a line with a balance of grinder(fast hitting) play-maker and a sniper to counter the better line on the ice like your 3rd and their 1st

Answer 4

hard aspect search in the search engines this might help