Firepower Matters: Why Forwards with Big Shots Score Big Goals
- Kevin Geist
- Oct 22
- 3 min read
In today’s fast-paced game, forwards are expected to be more than just quick
skaters and creative playmakers — they need to be dangerous shooters. Among the many tools in a forward’s arsenal, a powerful and accurate slapshot can be a game-changer. While wrist shots and snapshots dominate the modern highlight reels, the slapshot still holds a critical place in a forward’s toolkit — especially when it’s used at the right moments.
1. Creating Threat and Respect from Defenders
When a forward has a heavy slapshot, defensemen are forced to respect their space. This opens up new opportunities — they can fake a slapper to create a passing lane, pull a defender out of position, or use the threat of a bomb from the top of the circle to draw attention away from teammates. A strong slapshot changes how opponents defend you, making you a dual threat as both a shooter and playmaker.
2. Essential for Power Play Success
Forwards on the power play — especially those positioned on the half-wall or at the top of the umbrella — need a slapshot that can beat defenders clean or get through traffic for tips and rebounds. A crisp, low, controlled slapshot is often the difference between a cleared puck and a deflection that leads to a goal. Teams that can generate one-timers and heavy shots from multiple angles keep penalty kills guessing and goalies on edge.
3. Scoring Off the Rush
In transition, a quick slapshot can surprise goaltenders who are expecting a softer wrister or a deke. When used in stride or off a drop pass, it adds a level of unpredictability. A forward who can lean into a slapshot off the rush doesn’t just rely on perfect setups — they can create offense out of nothing with one well-timed blast.
4. Generating Rebounds and Chaos
Not every slapshot needs to go bar-down to be effective. Hard, low slapshots to the pads or through traffic can create rebound opportunities, loose pucks, and screens that lead to goals. Forwards who understand how to shoot with purpose — aiming for tips, second chances, and net-front scrambles — make their entire line more dangerous.
5. Showcasing Strength, Confidence, and Skill
A clean, powerful slapshot is as much about technique as it is about strength. It demonstrates balance, weight transfer, timing, and core power. When a forward consistently unleashes a well-executed slapshot, it sends a message — they’re confident, skilled, and capable of changing the game with a single swing.
Building a Better Slapshot
Developing a good slapshot takes repetition and focus on key mechanics:
Weight transfer: Load the back leg and drive through the shot.
Flex the stick: Use the stick’s bend to generate power, not just arm strength.
Head up: See the target while keeping your shot compact and accurate.
Follow through: Drive the stick blade toward the target for precision and control.
Like any skill, the slapshot improves with consistent reps and coaching attention. The best forwards learn to read when to use it — whether that’s on the rush, from the point, or on a one-timer in the slot.
Final Thought
A strong slapshot doesn’t replace your wrist shot or snapshot — it complements them. The modern forward who can score in multiple ways becomes a nightmare for defenders and goalies alike. When you can release a heavy slapshot confidently, you give your team another weapon — and that versatility can turn good forwards into great ones.
