IceHockeyMan

IHM Knowledge Center

Can a Player Score with Their Hand in Ice Hockey?

Is it legal to score a goal using your hand in hockey?

Editor: Coach Mark • Updated: March 20, 2026

Short Answer

No, a goal cannot be scored using the hand. Any goal scored with a hand is disallowed.

Full Explanation

In ice hockey, players are not allowed to direct the puck into the net using their hand.

While a player may bat the puck with their hand in open play, they cannot use their hand to score a goal or direct the puck to a teammate in the offensive zone.

If the puck enters the net after being touched by a player’s hand, the goal will be disallowed.

Even if the contact is unintentional, referees will typically rule no goal if the hand directly influenced the puck entering the net.

Video review is often used to confirm whether the puck was played with the hand before crossing the goal line.

Why This Rule Exists

The rule ensures that goals are scored using legal hockey skills with the stick, maintaining fairness and consistency.

Key Takeaways

• Goals cannot be scored with the hand.
• Hand contact in offensive zone is restricted.
• Unintentional contact can still disallow a goal.
• Video review is used in close cases.