The Razor Pick in Men’s Lacrosse

One of the most important tools you can teach your team is how to effectively set picks to create space and scoring opportunities. One of the most strategic picks is the Razor Pick, a highly effective offensive play designed to generate confusion and force defenders into difficult decisions near the goal. Here’s a breakdown of how the razor pick works and how to teach your players to execute it in a game.

What Is a Razor Pick?

A Razor Pick is set just behind or near the Goal Line Extended (GLE), where offensive action typically intensifies. This pick is a close-range, east/west maneuver meant to help dodgers (ball carriers) find openings by forcing the defending team to react quickly.

The picker—typically another attackman—sets the pick near the crease or GLE, giving the dodger a clear lane to the goal or forcing the defense into a challenging switch or rotation.

Why the Razor Pick Works

In comparison to other types of picks, the razor pick is especially effective because it takes place close to the crease. Defenders are forced into quick decision-making in a tight space:

1. East/West Movement: Unlike older offensive strategies that relied heavily on north/south dodging (straight up the field), the razor pick emphasizes lateral movement across the crease. This east/west motion forces defenders to choose between sticking with their man or switching, creating openings for the dodger.

2. Deceptive Setup: The effectiveness of the razor pick is in its deceptive nature. The defender expects the pick to be set on one side, but at the last second, the picker can change direction and set it on the other side. This creates a momentary delay in the defense, allowing the dodger to get inside and make a move toward the goal.

3. Unique Defensive Challenges: The pick is set so close to the crease that defenders are forced to navigate around the goal itself. If they don’t fight over the pick, the dodger can easily take a hands-free shot from “X” (behind the goal). If they try to switch, it often leaves an attackman moving at full speed against a slower defensive midfielder, which can be exploited for a high-quality scoring chance.

How to Execute the Razor Pick in a Game

1. Set the Pick at the Right Spot:

The picker should position themselves slightly behind the GLE, close to the crease but not directly on it. This proximity to the goal creates added pressure on the defense. Make sure the picker is stationary and firmly planted when setting the pick to avoid moving screens (which could result in a penalty).

2. Timing the Pick:

The key to a successful razor pick is timing. The ball carrier should initiate their dodge just as the pick is set. Teach the dodger to approach the defender aggressively, making it look like they are driving toward the middle of the field before cutting back toward the pick.

3. Dodger’s Path:

After the pick is set, the dodger should roll tight around the picker, keeping their stick protected and ready to shoot. If the defense fails to switch or fight through the pick, the dodger should have a clear lane to the goal or the opportunity to pass to an open teammate.

4. Communication is Key:

As the pick is being set, the offense should communicate—alerting teammates to the setup and making sure everyone is moving in sync. The picker can fake a pick or switch sides at the last minute to confuse defenders, but everyone should be on the same page.

Common Defensive Responses and How to Exploit Them

Your team should be aware of how defenses might respond to the razor pick and how to adjust accordingly:

1. Going Under the Pick:

If the defender tries to go under the pick without applying pressure, the dodger now has a hands-free opportunity at “X” behind the goal, giving them space to move and pass.

2. Fighting Over the Pick:

If the defender tries to fight over the pick, they will often get stuck navigating the back of the net. This allows the dodger to create separation and either shoot or pass to a teammate.

3. Switching the Pick:

If the defense switches, the dodger should recognize that the new defender is often slower or less experienced. The attacker can take advantage of this matchup by accelerating and attacking the goal with a full head of steam.

Drills to Practice the Razor Pick

Here are some drills you can run in practice to help your team execute the razor pick efficiently:

1. Pick and Roll Drill:

Set up cones to represent the GLE and crease. Have one player act as the picker and another as the dodger. Practice setting the pick and dodging around it, focusing on timing and proper footwork.

2. 2v2 Razor Pick Simulation:

In a half-field drill, set up a 2v2 scenario where one defender has to navigate around the pick. Focus on communication between the picker and dodger, and make sure the picker is varying their approach to confuse defenders.

3. Game Situations:

Run full-speed game scenarios where the offense sets razor picks during settled offensive possessions. Emphasize communication and timing, and make sure players are reacting to defensive switches.