A seasoned hockey development coach reflects on the strategic decision to allocate ice time to players who may not always dominate the game but bring critical value to team dynamics. Drawing from his experience with professional and minor-league teams, he argues that thoughtful ice time management can shape player confidence, skill growth, and even morale. The piece explores how coaches can balance performance metrics with developmental needs, offering insights for players and coaches alike. For those interested in the tactical and human side of hockey coaching, this perspective provides a fresh take on a familiar challenge.

In this edition, Craig Johnson, a former assistant with the Anaheim Ducks and Ontario of the American Hockey League, and development coach with the Los Angeles Kings, writes about giving ice time to ...