How to Protect the Puck in NHL 25

Now that NHL 25 has arrived, players are diving into the latest installment which takes action up a notch as the first franchise release exclusively on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S. For as pretty as it is, failing to protect the puck in NHL 25 can make any game extra frustrating. Whether you're building a career in Be A Pro or trying out the revamped Franchise Mode, learning how to protect the puck is going to help you reach the offensive zone more often without a turnover on the way.

How to Protect Puck in NHL 25

Players who got accustomed to the new Total Control scheme last year will thankfully not have to deal with many changes, and the NHL 25 controls to Protect Puck are exactly what they were in NHL 24. If you're looking to speed across the ice with one of the best skating styles, don't nullify that strength by handing the puck away time after time.

When you choose to Hustle by pressing on the Left Stick (L3 on PlayStation), that decision comes with a major risk in that the puck is normally much easier to lose while hustling. You might make it into the offensive zone, but if you lose the puck it's not going to matter.

In order to Protect Puck in NHL 25, move the Right Stick to the left or Right while pressing on the Left Stick (L3 on PlayStation) to Hustle. The direction you choose will determine which side of your player the puck is kept on, so keep an eye on your opponents and keep the puck as far from them as possible to prevent a turnover.

You'll also want to consider the importance of releasing Hustle entirely if the moment calls for it. Once you're ready to pass or shoot the puck, release the Left Stick (L3 on PlayStation) entirely to revert to a normal glide. Doing this will increase the accuracy of passes and shots, and it will make it harder for opponents to swipe the puck away and nullify your offensive opportunity. If you're struggling with Protect Puck in NHL 25, try heading into Free Skate to practice the controls until you're comfortable enough to execute it in a full game.