Offsides in hockey is a rule that helps maintain fair play and ensure that the game is played within the boundaries of the game. Here are five supporting facts about offsides in hockey:
1. Definition: Offsides occurs when an attacking player crosses the opposing team’s blue line before the puck does.
2. Intention: The rule was implemented to prevent players from cherry-picking, which means staying near the opponent’s goal waiting for a pass without contributing to the gameplay.
3. Delayed Offside: If an attacking player goes offsides, but all teammates exit the offensive zone before the puck crosses the blue line or gains control, the offside is waived off. This avoids unnecessary stoppages in play.
4. Blue Line: The blue line is the boundary line that divides the offensive and defensive zones. Players must have at least one skate on or behind the blue line when the puck fully crosses.
5. Punishment: If a player is deemed offside, play is stopped, and a faceoff is conducted outside the offensive zone, near the blue line where the offside violation occurred.
Here are seven frequently asked questions about offsides in hockey:
1. Can a player re-enter the offensive zone after going offsides?
– Yes, once all attacking players have exited the zone, the player can re-enter as long as they are onside.
2. Does going offside result in a penalty?
– No, there is no penalty associated with going offside as it is a violation resulting in a stoppage of play and a faceoff.
3. Are there any exceptions to the offsides rule?
– Yes, if the puck is carried into the offensive zone by a defending player, the attacking players do not have to wait for the puck to cross the blue line before entering.
4. Can a player go offside during a power play?
– Yes, the offsides rule still applies during a power play. The attacking team must be mindful of the blue line.
5. What happens if an attacking player enters the offensive zone before the puck but does not touch it?
– It is still considered an offside violation. The player’s actions in crossing the blue line trigger the offside call.
6. Can offsides be challenged through video review?
– Yes, offsides can be challenged if it results in a goal. The video review determines if the attackers were truly offside during the play.
7. How is offsides different in international hockey?
– In international hockey, as opposed to NHL rules, the attacking player only needs to have their stick or skate on the “imaginary plane” above the blue line to be considered onside.
BOTTOM LINE: Offsides in hockey is a rule designed to ensure fair play by preventing players from entering the offensive zone before the puck. It results in a stoppage of play and a faceoff outside the offensive zone. Understanding the intricacies of this rule can enhance both players’ and fans’ enjoyment of the game.
