Gold medal games are often decided by the smallest details — and sometimes by a single elite play. 

In this breakdown, we look at Abbey Murphy’s incredible overtime back-check and stick lift that stopped what looked like a sure Canadian scoring opportunity. 

It’s a perfect example of how elite scanning, decision-making, and relentless effort without the puck can completely change the outcome of a game.

Check out the 4 minute hockey IQ video breakdown here:

3 Key Hockey IQ Takeaways

1. Scan constantly so you understand the full situation
Before attacking, Daryl Watts scans multiple times to track both her teammate Fillier and the back-checking Murphy. Elite players are constantly gathering information so they can anticipate the next play instead of reacting late.

2. Great defenders adapt instead of following rules blindly
Most players are taught to back-check on the inside, but Murphy recognizes that Watts is a left-handed shooter and adjusts her route. By switching lanes to the outside at the last second, she creates the angle needed to disrupt the puck without taking a penalty.

3. Elite effort + elite hockey IQ = game-saving plays
Murphy doesn’t just skate hard—she reads the situation, takes the smartest route, and executes a perfectly timed stick lift. That combination of speed, awareness, and skill is what turns a likely goal against into a momentum-changing defensive play.

Work Hard. Dream BIG.

Make The BIG Play. Be Orange. 

~ Coach Kim