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6 shots you need in 2026
Paul from Pickleball Daily
February 17, 2026
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Tip of the day
Roscoe Bellamy outlines six essential shots that players must master to stay ahead of the rapidly evolving competitive landscape in 2026.
Adopting a two-handed backhand is becoming a standard for top professionals because it offers more stability and deception at the kitchen line compared to traditional slice dinks.
To execute a two-handed backhand correctly, you must focus on footwork to get your outside leg behind the ball and lead the motion with your non-dominant arm.
The drip is a hybrid shot that combines elements of a drop and a drive, designed to land low at the opponent's feet with moderate power.
This shot is most effective when preceded by a deep serve, creating more space for the ball to fall as the opponent transitions toward the kitchen.
Effective counter volleys require a stable lower body base and the tracking technique, which involves following the ball with your paddle tip during dink rallies.
Adding your left arm to the backhand wing during a counter can provide the extra stability needed to handle high-velocity attacks from opponents.
A defensive dead dink is a shallow, neutralized shot used to reset the point when you are pushed wide or caught off-balance.
Instead of trying to create an aggressive angle from a defensive position, you should aim for the middle of the court with an open paddle face to slow down the rally.
The push volley allows you to take dinks out of the air while leaning forward, effectively shrinking the kitchen and maintaining a dominant court position.
By using a firm grip and a poking motion rather than a full swing, you can redirect the ball quickly and keep constant pressure on your opponents.
Modern speedups should be viewed as the start of a combo rather than immediate winners, with the initial attack used to set up a finishing volley.
Anticipating the rebound effect allows you to predict where an opponent's counter will land based on the direction of your initial speedup.
Key Points:
Transition to a two-handed backhand to increase your defensive stability and attacking options at the net.
Utilize the drip shot at 50% power to force pop-ups from opponents who are moving forward.
Maintain a still lower body while using the tracking technique to prepare for and execute successful counter volleys.
Employ the defensive dead dink to neutralize aggressive plays and reset the rally from a wide position.
Master the push volley to stay aggressive at the kitchen line and take away your opponent's reaction time.
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Happy pickling,
Paul