If the goalie has the ball to start the breakout it is important that they spot the open player and quickly make a high percentage pass, without hesitation.  If no outlet is available the goalie should step out of the crease either behind the net or on the bench-side (to avoid a 5 second call) and the team should take a slow break approach to transitioning the ball.

The first look for the goalie (if advanced) should be down the floor for a breakaway (Position A), but only if wide open.  Intermediate goalies should look to initiate a fast break (Position B), if possible.  For beginners, or if pressure is applied, players on the far-side should button hook down as far as the mid-boards and GLE (where required), for an easy outlet pass.  Otherwise, a player may quickly come into the crease and get the ball from the goalie, running it out.

For the most part the ball should be moved up the side boards opposite the player's bench, unless there is a fast-break.  The golden rule:  "when in doubt, run it out."  Transitioning defensive players should “run the ball deep” and “in two’s,” looking for "late" transition (trailers) and eventually passing the ball off to players coming on the floor from the bench (Position E); changing if there is more than 16 seconds left on the shot clock (in the "Offense-Defense" transition system).

If playing in a "Two-Way" transition system and having players start on defense, all players should run the length of the floor upon breaking out, getting to their proper floor side if possible (except the ball carrier who should generally carry the ball away from the bench).  If playing offense first, players will later play defense and then two-players will have to stay and start the "breakout" back towards the offensive zone before eventually changing.