A face-off is the method of putting the puck in play — the referee drops the puck between two opposing centres (or designated players) who compete to win possession. Face-offs occur at the start of each period, after a goal, after stoppages (icing, penalties, offside) and in various situations during play. Face-off win percentage is a tracked statistic; winning the opening face-off and key defensive zone draws can significantly affect possession and scoring opportunities.
Key points
- Referee drops puck between two players
- Used to restart play after stoppages
- Face-off win % is a tracked stat
- Winning key draws affects possession and scoring
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