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What Is High Sticking the Puck in Ice Hockey?

What is high sticking the puck, when is it allowed, and when does it result in a stoppage?

Editor: Coach Mark • Updated: March 3, 2026

Short Answer

High sticking the puck occurs when a player makes contact with the puck above the height of the crossbar or their shoulders, depending on the situation.

Full Explanation

A player may play the puck with their stick as long as the contact is below shoulder height. If a player touches the puck with their stick above shoulder level and a teammate gains possession, play is stopped.

If the puck is played above the height of the crossbar and directly enters the net, the goal is disallowed.

However, if a player bats the puck above shoulder height but then regains possession themselves without a teammate touching it, play may continue.

Officials must determine both the height of the stick and whether possession changed.

Why the High Stick Rule Exists

The rule protects player safety and prevents dangerous stick positions during puck battles.

Key Takeaways

• The puck cannot be played above shoulder height if a teammate gains possession.
• A puck deflected above the crossbar into the net does not count.
• Self-recovery without teammate contact may allow play to continue.
• The rule promotes safety and fairness.