Hockey Takeaways vs Giveaways
Hockey Turnovers
Throughout the course of a game, teams are constantly changing ownership of the puck through turnovers.
A turnover is a change of possession without a goal in ice hockey. There are two types of turnovers, giveaways and takeaways.
Hockey Giveaways
A giveaway is an unforced mistake that causes a player with possession of the puck to lose it to a player on the opposing team.
Coaches will often emphasize their team to limit giveaways, as these frequently result in easy opportunities for the opponent.
Hockey Takeaways
A takeaway is a forced action taken by a defensive player to regain possession of the puck for his team.
For a turnover to be called a takeaway, it must be done by a defensive player applying pressure on the opposing team.
Takeaways vs Giveaways
| SITUATION | TYPE OF TURNOVER |
|---|---|
| A defensive player intercepts a pass and steals the puck. | Takeaway |
| A defensive player steals and strips the puck from an offensive player. | Takeaway |
| A defensive player checks the player with the puck leading to a change of possession. | Takeaway |
| An offensive player misses a pass or a shot on goal, and the other team gains possession. | Giveaway |
| An offensive player loses the puck while skating, and the puck is recovered by the defense. | Giveaway |
Takeaway and Giveaway Statistics
Takeaways and giveaways are considered statistics in ice hockey. However, the definitions of takeaways and giveaways are somewhat vague and confusing, meaning it can be difficult to discern between the two. The NHL defines a takeaway as any type of pressure applied to an offensive player resulting in them losing possession of the puck. It can be difficult to determine when the pressure was applied and where on the ice and who to give credit for the stat to.