Above is a video all about the "Elbow Cut" which is one of the most dangerous cuts in women's lacrosse. This backdoor cut takes advantage of the fact that often times a defender will turn her head to see the ball. At this moment, if a cutter explodes Backdoor Cut to the net, it's nearly impossible to deny the cutter a pass that can be thrown into space for the cutter to run on to. When the defense wants to slide or double down from the elbow, this cut can be even more impactful as a means to get open or to eliminate the slide.
It is also possible to make this cut a Front Door Cut, or a cut in front of your defender. Check out this example of a beautiful Elbow Cut! The key is when you cut hard leading with your stick and the feeder can lead you, it's almost impossible for your own defender to make the play. Backside defenders could help, but that's about it!
Off-Ball Elbow 2man
Let's take a look at a similar look called Off-Ball Elbow 2man. Watch this example of picks and slips from the elbow that create distraction and confusion for the off-ball defenders. The Elbow cut is difficult enough to deal with, but when the defense has to think about helping down to a dodger while contending with the pick action is near impossible!
The first clip, #2 Selena Lasota's defender #25 thought there was going to be a switch, but her teammate #24 was watching the ball, ready to help. There was no switch and Lasota cut to the net uncovered.
In the second clip there was another communication error where one defender was switching and the other defender was staying leaving Lasota a free cut yet again.
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Lesson 76:
The Elbow Cut
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