Master the Dink Speed-Up Pickleball Tactic: In pickleball, choosing the right moment to “speed up” a dink shot can be a game-changer, creating scoring opportunities and putting pressure on opponents. Recently, a high-level player shared insights on which dinks are most effective for this pickleball tactic, providing strategic advice on wide, “dead” balls and highlighting the challenges of speeding up from the middle.
Wide, Dead Dinks: Prime for Speeding Up
The first key point shared is that wide, dead dinks in pickleball —often lofted and near the sideline—are the best balls to speed up. Attacking these pickleball shots allows players to work with more angle, often giving them the upper hand in a rally.
When the dink lands near the sideline, the positioning of the opponents may not be fully aligned, as many teams struggle to communicate who should cover the middle. This can lead to breakdowns in coverage, allowing for a straightforward shot placement.
Exploiting Angle for Advantage
Wide dinks in pickleball provide a unique advantage, as they create more angles, making it difficult for the opposing team to respond effectively. If the opponent on the far side shifts over to cover the line, their partner may not react in time to protect the open middle, which can result in a winning shot.
This pickleball strategy emphasizes patience and shot selection over rushing into attacks, as it exploits the geometry of the court and possible gaps in the opponents’ communication.
Middle of the Kitchen: A Risky Spot to Speed Up
The player also warns against attempting speed-ups from the center of the kitchen. Unlike wide dinks, shots from the middle of the court provide limited angles, leaving fewer options for putting opponents on the defensive.
A middle speed-up is less likely to surprise opponents, as they are typically prepared to respond quickly to shots in this area. In these situations, one of the opponents is almost certain to be in position to counter, limiting the chance of a successful offensive play.
News in Brief: Master the Dink Speed-Up Pickleball Tactic
By recognizing which balls are ideal for speeding up and which are best left alone, players can improve their dinking strategy and increase their effectiveness at the net. Wide, dead dinks along the sideline offer clear advantages, allowing players to create winning angles while potentially catching opponents off-guard.
This targeted approach not only elevates a player’s strategic awareness but also enhances overall court performance. As players continue to refine these pickleball tactics, they gain an edge in today’s increasingly competitive pickleball sport.
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