[Image of a hockey game with the caption “How long is a hockey game?”]
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Introduction
Greetings, readers! Whether you’re an avid hockey fan or just curious about the intricacies of the game, you’ve come to the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the fascinating world of hockey game duration, exploring every aspect of this crucial topic.
So, how long is a hockey game? The answer, as you’ve probably guessed, is not always straightforward. But don’t worry; we’ll break down the details for you, ensuring you have a clear understanding of the various factors that determine game length. Let’s get started!
Regulation Time
Periods
The backbone of any hockey game is its regulation time, which consists of three periods of equal length, separated by brief intermissions. These periods vary depending on the league and level of play.
- NHL: Each period lasts for 20 minutes of real time, meaning the puck is actually in play for approximately 17-18 minutes.
- International hockey (IIHF): Each period lasts for 20 minutes of real time, but the puck is in play for the full 20 minutes.
- Minor league hockey (AHL, ECHL): Each period typically lasts for 17-18 minutes of real time.
Stoppages
During regulation time, the game clock stops whenever the whistle is blown for stoppages such as:
- Icing calls
- Offside calls
- Penalties (a player is sent to the penalty box)
- Goal reviews (video replay to confirm if a goal was scored)
- Equipment repairs
Overtime
Regular Season
If a game is tied at the end of regulation time, it goes into overtime, an extra period of play to determine a winner. In the regular season, most leagues use a 5-minute sudden death overtime period:
- If a team scores in overtime, that team wins.
- If the overtime period ends without a goal, the game goes to a shootout.
Playoffs
In the playoffs, overtime periods are longer and continue until a goal is scored (sudden death):
- NHL: Each overtime period lasts for 20 minutes of real time.
- International hockey: Each overtime period lasts for 10 minutes of real time.
Shootouts
Regular Season
If a game remains tied after overtime during the regular season, it goes to a shootout, a series of one-on-one duels between the shooters from each team and the opposing goaltender. The team that scores the most goals in the shootout wins:
- Each team selects three shooters.
- If the teams are still tied after three rounds, they continue with a sudden death round, where the first team to score wins.
Playoffs
In the playoffs, shootouts are not used to determine a winner. Instead, games continue with 20-minute sudden death overtime periods until a goal is scored.
Length of a Typical Game
The length of a hockey game can vary significantly depending on the league, level of play, and whether or not overtime is required:
- NHL: Regular season games typically last around 2 hours and 30 minutes, while playoff games can extend to over 3 hours 30 minutes.
- International hockey: Games tend to be shorter, typically lasting around 2 hours and 15 minutes.
- Minor league hockey: Games typically last around 2 hours and 15 minutes.
Breakdown of Game Length
| League | Period Length | Stoppages | Overtime | Shootout | Typical Game Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NHL | 20 minutes of real time | Yes | 5-minute sudden death | Yes | 2 hours and 30 minutes |
| International hockey | 20 minutes of real time (IIHF) | Yes | 10-minute or 20-minute sudden death | No | 2 hours and 15 minutes |
| Minor league hockey | 17-18 minutes of real time | Yes | 5-minute sudden death | Yes | 2 hours and 15 minutes |
Conclusion
Now that you know how long a hockey game can last, you’re well-equipped to impress your friends and fellow fans with your newfound knowledge. Remember, these are just general guidelines, and actual game lengths can vary.
For more fascinating insights into the world of hockey, be sure to check out our other articles:
- The Evolution of Hockey Sticks
- The Art of Ice Resurfacing
- The History of the Stanley Cup
FAQ about the Length of a Hockey Game
How long is a regular-season NHL game?
Three periods of 20 minutes each, for a total of 60 minutes.
What happens if the game is tied after 60 minutes?
A five-minute overtime period is played. If the game is still tied after overtime, a shootout is held.
How many minutes are in an overtime period?
Five minutes.
How many shots are taken in a shootout?
Three shots per team.
What is a shootout?
A shootout is a skills competition that determines the outcome of a tied game. Each team selects three shooters to take penalty shots, and the team with the most goals scored wins.
How long is a penalty shot?
A penalty shot is a one-on-one shot between the shooter and the opposing goaltender. The shooter has 15 seconds to score.
How long is an intermission?
18 minutes.
What happens if a player is injured during the game?
The game is stopped and the injured player is taken to the locker room for evaluation. If the player cannot return, the team is allowed to dress a replacement player.
How long can a game last?
In theory, a game can last indefinitely if it remains tied through overtime and shootout periods. However, the NHL has a rule that states that a game cannot last more than four hours, including overtime and any breaks.
What determines the length of a game?
The length of a game can be affected by a number of factors, including the number of penalties called, the number of goals scored, and the tempo of the game.
