Hockey as a sport has many different rules and regulations players must adhere to. One of these rules is called icing, which can confuse new players or those unfamiliar with the sport.

This rule makes the sport distinct and more interesting to play and watch for experts and hockey enthusiasts. Explore what icing is and some examples of how it's used in games.

Icing in hockey is when a player shoots the puck across the red line and into the opposing team's goal crease. The other team must then clear the puck before play can continue. If the puck is not cleared, icing will be called, and the faceoff will take place in the defensive zone of the team that committed the infraction.

The Introduction Of Icing Rule

In 1937, the NHL introduced the icing rule to avoid frustration from the spectators. Before the rule, teams could shoot the puck down to the other side of the ice whenever they were in danger of losing it. This often led to repeated back-and-forth play and minimal scoring, which frustrated spectators and teams.

The icing rule was enough deterrence for teams to think twice about just dumping the puck down the ice whenever they're in trouble. Basically, icing eliminates the delay tactics some teams would use and forces players to make decisions under pressure.

Types Of Icing Penalties

Hockey players and enthusiasts also should learn the icing variations, apart from the standard icing rule. 

These include:

Touch Icing

Touch icing is committed when a defending player, other than the goaltender, touches the puck before an attacking player does. The rule was created to prevent players from being able to intentionally ice the puck by shooting it down the length of the ice.

No-Touch Icing

With no-touch icing, the linesman will blow the play dead as soon as the puck crosses the goal line.

Hybrid Icing

Hybrid icing is when two players race down the ice when the puck is iced. The play is whistled dead when the defending player reaches the faceoff dot first.

When Is Icing Allowed?

Icing is only allowed under certain circumstances. 

For example, if a team ices the puck while on a power play, the other team will be awarded a penalty shot. In addition, if a team ices the puck while short-handed, the other team will be given a power play.

Icing also can be waived off if the linesman believes it was not intentional. 

For example, if a player shoots the puck and it hits a stick or another player on its way down the ice, the linesman may waive off the icing. A referee indicates icing by blowing the whistle with an arm straight up in the air. The palm should be facing inward.

The Bottom Line

Icing in hockey is one of the many rules that make the sport what it is. Hockey is a fast-paced, exciting game that both players and spectators can enjoy. Icing adds another level of strategy and excitement to the game, making hockey even more fun to play and watch.