The purpose of a penalty shot in ice hockey is to provide a player with an opportunity to score following a severe infraction committed by the opposing team, typically a foul that denies a player a clear scoring chance. When awarded, the player takes a lone shot against the goalie from a designated spot, with no defenders present. This situation allows the offensive player to demonstrate their skill in a one-on-one scenario, adding excitement to the game. Successfully converting a penalty shot can shift momentum and significantly impact the outcome of a match.