defenceman

Defenceman is a player position in ice hockey. The term uses the British spelling defenceman; in North American usage defenseman is common. A defenceman typically lines up on the left or right side of the ice and forms a defensive pairing with another defenceman. The primary duties are to prevent the opposing team from scoring, contest attackers, block shots, break up passes, and clear the puck from the defensive zone. They also help protect the goaltender, defend against traffic in front of the net, and back-check to disrupt opponents' rushes.

Beyond defense, defencemen contribute to playmaking and transitions. They often move the puck up the ice, execute outlet passes to forwards, and support the team’s attack from the blue line. Depending on coaching strategies and the player’s skills, a defenceman may stay at home to emphasize shutdown defense or take on more offensive responsibilities as an offensive or two-way defenceman. In special teams, defencemen play key roles: on the penalty kill they focus on breaking up plays and maintaining defensive structure, while on the power play they may quarterback the attack from the point, taking shots or feeding forwards.

Key attributes for the position include skating speed and agility, strong positional sense, effective stick work and body positioning, the ability to read plays, and a reliable shot from the point. The role of a defenceman varies with team systems, league level, and individual strengths, but centers on protecting the goal while enabling and supporting offensive play.