This guide will tell you how to tie up players in front of the net in NHL 23.
If you are on defense in the center of the screen and you want to prevent a player from cutting underneath and getting a one-timer, then you will need to press and hold the X button when near the player on the PS5 or the PS4. Hold it long enough, and you’ll tie up the stick that way.
If you are on Xbox One, then press and hold the A button when near the player, near the net. It will prevent the opponent from having an opportunity to shoot a one-timer.