NHL 23: Beginner’s guide to defense – How to position yourself, controls, and tips

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Sure, the object of hockey is to score more goals than the other team. Part of that is on the offense, but the other part is keeping the puck of your own net. Defense is critical in hockey, and that’s true as well in NHL 23. If you’re struggling with playing defense in this year’s game, we can help. Let’s take a look at the controls for defense, plus some helpful tips on how to position yourself, and things to watch for on the ice.

Related: NHL 23: Comprehensive deking guide – How to deke, controls, and tips for beginners

Now that we’ve gone over the basic controls you will need to know for defense in NHL 23, here are some helpful tips that might come in handy.

Regardless of what mode (HUT, EASHL, etc.), it’s important to stay in position. For example, if you continuously attempt to pinch and move up forward as a defenseman, you leave yourself at risk of surrounding goals. Why? Because you won’t have enough bodies back to handle the opponent’s offense.

Stay with the opposing skaters, and be disciplined, or you might regret in the future. Keep the left winger on the left side, the right winger on the right, etc. You can be aggressive at times, but pick your spots carefully.

The new Frostbite engine has brought some quirks to it, and one that has changed significantly since the overhaul is poke checks. Poke checks are far less overpowered, as the Frostbite engine emphasizes body checking, blocking passing lanes, and staying in position.

Poke checks are still important, but it’s really not to spam. Constant poke checks will lead to lost footing, and allowing for opponents to get past you should you not be successful.

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