Which ice hockey position primarily guards the net?

The ice hockey position that primarily guards the net is the goaltender.

Also called a goalie or netminder, the goaltender’s main responsibility is to prevent the puck from entering the team’s net. The position is played in and around the goal crease, the marked area directly in front of the net.

Goaltenders use specialized equipment, including a mask, leg pads, blocker, catching glove, chest protector, and larger stick. Their gear helps protect them from powerful shots and allows them to cover more of the net. Positioning is crucial: moving toward the top of the crease can reduce the shooter’s available angle.

A goaltender is not the same as a defenceman. Defencemen protect areas in front of the net and help move the puck, while the goaltender is the last line of defence. Teams normally dress one goaltender at a time, but may replace that player with an extra skater when chasing a late equalizer.