Tag: illegal hand pass

What Is a Hand Pass in Ice Hockey?

IHM Knowledge Center

What Is a Hand Pass in Ice Hockey?

What is a hand pass, when is it legal, and when does it result in a stoppage?

Editor: Coach Mark • Updated: March 3, 2026

Short Answer

A hand pass occurs when a player deliberately bats or directs the puck to a teammate using their hand. It is legal in the defensive zone but illegal in the offensive zone.

Full Explanation

Players are allowed to catch the puck with their hand and immediately drop it to the ice without closing their hand around it. However, directing the puck to a teammate with a clear passing motion is considered a hand pass.

A hand pass is legal in the defensive zone and play continues. In the neutral or offensive zone, a hand pass results in a whistle and a faceoff.

If a player uses a hand pass in the offensive zone and a goal is scored directly from that sequence, the goal will be disallowed.

Officials must determine whether the contact was a controlled pass or an accidental deflection.

Why Hand Pass Rules Exist

The rule ensures the game remains primarily stick-based and prevents teams from gaining unfair advantages by advancing the puck with their hands.

Key Takeaways

  • A hand pass involves deliberately directing the puck with the hand.
  • It is legal in the defensive zone.
  • It is illegal in the neutral and offensive zones.
  • Goals cannot result from an illegal hand pass.