IHM Knowledge Center
What Happens If the Puck Is Played with a High Stick in Open Play?
If a player contacts the puck above the allowed height during normal play, why is play sometimes stopped and sometimes allowed to continue?
Editor: Coach Mark • Updated: April 19, 2026
Short Answer
Play is stopped if a player contacts the puck with a stick above shoulder height and a teammate plays it next. If the opposing team gains control, play continues.
Full Explanation
High stick contact during open play is different from scoring situations. The key factor is what happens after the puck is contacted above the legal height.
If a player uses a high stick and then their own team plays the puck, the play is stopped and a faceoff occurs.
If the opposing team gains control immediately after the high stick contact, play continues.
This rule prevents teams from gaining an advantage through illegal stick positioning while maintaining game flow.
NHL vs IIHF Rule Differences
In the NHL, high stick contact is judged based on shoulder height, and continuation depends on which team gains possession.
IIHF rules are similar but may involve slightly stricter interpretation of stick height and control.
Both leagues apply the same core principle of advantage.
Why These Decisions Are Controversial
High stick calls are controversial because the difference between legal and illegal contact is often minimal.
Fans may focus on the contact itself, while referees focus on which team gains control afterward.
Controversy usually arises from:
- Borderline stick height decisions
- Quick possession changes after contact
- Unclear control by either team
Replay angles can make it difficult to judge exact stick position.
Edge Case: Simultaneous Contact by Both Teams
A key edge case occurs when both teams appear to touch or contest the puck immediately after a high stick.
If the puck is not clearly controlled by the offending team, referees may allow play to continue.
If control is ambiguous, a whistle may still be blown depending on interpretation.
These situations rely heavily on referee judgment.
IHM Signal System: How to Read the Situation
To determine whether play will stop, focus on these signals:
- Height signal: Was the stick above shoulder level?
- Control signal: Which team gains possession?
- Timing signal: How quickly does control occur?
Trigger-level rule:
If the offending team plays the puck after high stick contact, play is almost always stopped.
If the opposing team gains control immediately, play continues.
IHM Insight: Why This Rule Is Misunderstood
This rule is misunderstood because fans assume all high stick contact results in a stoppage.
In reality, continuation depends on possession after the contact.
Two identical high stick plays can result in different outcomes based on who controls the puck next.
Understanding possession-based logic is key.
Mini Q&A
Is all high stick contact illegal?
Yes, but not all result in stoppage.
What determines if play stops?
Which team gains control.
Can play continue after a high stick?
Yes, if the opposing team gains possession.
What is the reference height?
Shoulder height in open play.
Is this rule universal?
Yes, with slight variations.
Why This Rule Exists
This rule exists to prevent unfair advantage from dangerous stick positioning while allowing continuous gameplay when no advantage is gained.
It balances safety with game flow.
Key Takeaways
- High stick contact alone does not always stop play
- Possession determines continuation
- Shoulder height is the reference point
- Referee judgment is critical in close cases
- Game flow is preserved when possible