IHM Knowledge Center
Can a Goal Be Scored by Kicking the Puck in Ice Hockey?
If a player directs the puck toward the net with their skate, when does it count as a goal and when is it disallowed?
Editor: Coach Mark • Updated: April 19, 2026
Short Answer
A goal cannot be scored using a distinct kicking motion. However, a goal can count if the puck deflects off a skate without a clear kicking action.
Full Explanation
The difference between a legal goal and an illegal one involving the skate depends on whether the player makes a distinct kicking motion.
If a player intentionally swings or kicks their skate to propel the puck into the net, the goal is disallowed.
If the puck deflects off a skate that is stationary or being used to redirect rather than kick, the goal may count.
Referees must determine whether the movement was a natural positioning of the skate or an active kicking motion.
NHL vs IIHF Rule Differences
In the NHL, the focus is on whether there is a “distinct kicking motion”. Subtle redirections are often allowed.
In IIHF rules, the standard is similar, but interpretation can be stricter, especially when the skate changes direction noticeably.
Both leagues rely heavily on video review for these calls.
Why These Decisions Are Controversial
Kicking motion goals are controversial because the difference between a kick and a redirection is extremely subtle.
Fans often interpret any skate movement as a kick, while referees look for a clear, deliberate motion.
Controversy usually arises from:
- Small movements of the skate near the crease
- Multiple deflections before the puck enters the net
- Different replay angles showing different interpretations
Slow-motion replay can exaggerate motion, making legal deflections appear like kicks.
Edge Case: Skate Moves Slightly During Deflection
A critical edge case occurs when a player adjusts their skate position just before the puck makes contact.
If the movement is part of natural positioning and not a distinct kicking motion, the goal may still count.
If the movement clearly directs the puck forward in a kicking action, the goal is disallowed.
These situations often depend on frame-by-frame analysis.
IHM Signal System: How to Read the Situation
To determine whether a goal will count, focus on these signals:
- Motion signal: Is there a clear kicking movement?
- Direction signal: Does the skate actively propel the puck?
- Position signal: Is the skate used for positioning or striking?
Trigger-level rule:
If the skate clearly moves in a kicking motion to propel the puck, the goal is almost always disallowed.
If the puck deflects off a stationary or naturally positioned skate, the goal often counts.
IHM Insight: Why This Rule Is Misunderstood
This rule is misunderstood because people focus on whether the skate moved, rather than how it moved.
Not all skate movement is considered a kick. Hockey allows controlled redirection using the body, including the skate.
Two nearly identical plays can result in different rulings depending on the intent and motion of the player.
Understanding the difference between propulsion and redirection is key.
Mini Q&A
Can you score with your skate?
Yes, if it is a deflection and not a kick.
What is a kicking motion?
A deliberate forward movement to propel the puck.
Are all skate goals reviewed?
Most close cases are reviewed.
Does intent matter?
Yes, in determining whether it was a kick.
Is this rule the same everywhere?
Yes in principle, with slight interpretation differences.