The one-timer is one of the most explosive and effective shots in modern hockey. It’s a quick, often unstoppable weapon that has become a staple on power plays and in high-pressure scoring situations. From Ovechkin’s left-circle rockets to Stamkos’s deadly releases, the one-timer has evolved into an art form—and if you want to level up your shooting game, it’s a skill worth mastering.
Here’s how the one-timer has evolved, and how you can learn to execute it with power, precision, and consistency.
What is a One-Timer?
A one-timer is a shot taken directly off a pass without stopping or settling the puck first. Instead of controlling the puck before shooting, you swing through the puck in one fluid motion—catching the goalie off guard and giving defenders no time to react.
It’s all about timing, technique, and trust in your setup.
If you want to become a hockey shooting pro you have to master this shot.
The Evolution: From Rare to Required
In earlier eras of hockey, the one-timer was rarely used—often seen as risky or inconsistent. But as the pace of the game increased and offensive systems became more structured, the one-timer emerged as a deadly scoring tool, especially on the power play.
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Increased puck movement = more open lanes.
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More structured D-zones = less time and space to settle the puck.
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Better goaltending = faster releases needed to beat them.
Now, almost every elite goal scorer has a one-timer in their arsenal.
How to Perfect the One-Timer
Let’s break it down into key components:
1. Footwork & Body Positioning
You need to be set before the pass even comes. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart, knees bent, and your weight slightly forward.
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For left-handed shooters, open up slightly to your left.
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For right-handed shooters, open slightly to your right.
This gives your stick room to move and helps you rotate into the shot. Make sure your body is facing the general direction of the net, not the passer.
Pro Tip: Stay low. A lower center of gravity gives you better balance and power transfer.
2. Stick Position & Readiness
Your stick should be in the “loaded” position—about 6–12 inches off the ice, with your blade slightly open. Keep your eyes on the puck, not the passer.
When the pass comes, you want to:
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Time your swing so you connect as the puck arrives.
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Rotate your upper body through the shot.
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Follow through toward your target.
Don’t try to swing as hard as possible—fluid motion > brute force.
3. Timing is Everything
Timing is what separates an elite one-timer from a wild whiff.
The key is to swing through the puck—not too early, not too late. Work with a partner or use a passer rebounder to practice syncing your swing with the pass.
Start slow and build up speed. Accuracy matters more than power at first.
4. Pass Quality Matters
A great one-timer needs a pass that’s:
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Flat
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Fast (but not too fast)
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On your forehand side
But let’s be real—not every pass is perfect. Part of mastering the one-timer is learning to adjust to less-than-ideal passes. Practice one-timers from passes that are slightly behind or ahead of you—it’ll make you more game-ready.
5. Angles and Shooting Spots
The one-timer is most dangerous from:
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The faceoff circles (especially on the power play)
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The top of the slot
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Cross-ice passes that force goalies to move laterally
But it can work anywhere if you catch the goalie moving. Study where the open lanes are on the ice and position yourself accordingly.
Bonus: One-Timers on the Power Play
The power play is where the one-timer truly shines. The extra space lets your teammates set you up for a clean shot, and a quick release can beat even the best goalies before they square up.
If you’re playing the half-wall or the point, practice one-timers from different pass angles. Repetition and chemistry with your teammates are crucial.
Final Thoughts
The one-timer has come a long way—from a risky move to one of the most reliable weapons in a goal scorer’s toolkit. Whether you’re on a breakaway drill or setting up on the power play, adding a strong one-timer to your game will make you more dangerous and unpredictable on the ice.
Practice the motion, work on your timing, and don’t get discouraged by missed shots. Once you dial it in, goalies won’t stand a chance.