IHM Knowledge Center
What Is High Sticking the Puck in Ice Hockey?
When is it illegal to play the puck with a raised stick, and how do referees determine if the puck was played too high?
Editor: Coach Mark • Updated: April 19, 2026
Short Answer
High sticking the puck occurs when a player contacts the puck with their stick above shoulder height. Play is stopped unless the puck is played by an opponent.
Full Explanation
High sticking the puck is different from high sticking a player. This rule applies specifically to how the puck is played with the stick.
If a player touches the puck with their stick above shoulder height, the play is considered illegal and stopped.
The faceoff usually takes place where the infraction occurred or in the neutral zone, depending on the situation.
However, if the puck is immediately played by an opposing player after the high stick, play continues.
NHL vs IIHF Rule Differences
Both NHL and IIHF define high sticking the puck as contact above shoulder height.
In both leagues, the rule is consistent: if the puck is played too high by a player, play stops unless the opposing team gains control.
For goals, the standard is even stricter, using the height of the crossbar rather than the shoulders.
High Stick vs Legal Play
A player can legally play the puck in the air as long as the stick remains below shoulder height.
Once the stick rises above that level and makes contact, it becomes a violation.
The key difference is stick height at the moment of contact.
Timing and control are critical factors.
Why These Calls Are Controversial
High sticking the puck is controversial because it is difficult to judge exact stick height in real time.
Fans often rely on camera angles that may not clearly show the point of contact.
Controversy usually arises from:
- Close shoulder-level decisions
- Fast deflections
- Multiple players near the puck
- Unclear contact point
These decisions often require careful observation.
Edge Case: Deflection Off Another Player
A key edge case occurs when the puck deflects off a player’s stick that was above shoulder height.
If the contact is considered controlled or intentional, play is stopped.
If the deflection is clearly accidental and immediately played by the opponent, play may continue.
These situations can be difficult to interpret.
IHM Signal System: How to Read the Situation
To identify high sticking the puck, focus on these signals:
- Height signal: Was the stick above shoulder level?
- Contact signal: Did the stick touch the puck?
- Possession signal: Who played the puck next?
Trigger-level rule:
If a player contacts the puck with their stick above shoulder height and their team continues possession, play is almost always stopped.
If the opponent immediately gains control, play usually continues.
IHM Insight: Why This Rule Is Misunderstood
This rule is misunderstood because fans confuse it with high sticking a player.
High sticking the puck is about stick height, not contact with an opponent.
Also, many assume all high contact stops play, but opponent possession can allow play to continue.
Understanding height vs possession is key.
Mini Q&A
What is high sticking the puck?
Playing the puck with a stick above shoulder height.
Does play always stop?
No, not if the opponent gains possession.
What height is illegal?
Above the shoulders.
Is it the same as high sticking a player?
No, it is a different rule.
Why is it enforced?
To ensure safe and controlled puck play.
Why This Rule Exists
The rule exists to maintain safe stick control and prevent dangerous or unfair puck play at high stick levels.
It ensures consistency and fairness in aerial puck situations.
Key Takeaways
- Stick height above shoulders is illegal
- Opponent possession can allow play to continue
- Different from high sticking a player
- Timing and control matter
- Used to maintain safe play