How Long Are Hockey Periods? Find Out Here!

Do you love watching hockey games, but find yourself wondering how long are hockey periods? Whether you’re new to the game or just curious, this guide has everything you need to know about the length of hockey periods and more.

Hockey is a fast-paced, action-packed sport that is enjoyed by millions of fans around the world. The game is broken down into three periods, each with its own unique rules and strategies. Understanding the length of each period and what happens during breaks is crucial to following the game and making informed bets on your favorite team.

In this article, we’ll answer all your burning questions about hockey periods, including how long each period lasts, how many periods there are in a game, and whether there are breaks between periods. By the end of this guide, you’ll be a hockey period expert and ready to fully enjoy all the excitement the game has to offer!

Read on to discover everything you need to know about hockey periods and become a true fan of this thrilling sport!

Discover the Length of Each Hockey Period

Hockey is a fast-paced and exciting sport enjoyed by millions of fans around the world. One of the unique aspects of hockey is the structure of the game, which is divided into three periods. Each period is packed with action and provides fans with plenty of thrills.

So, just how long are these periods? In the National Hockey League (NHL), each period is 20 minutes long, with a 17-minute intermission between the second and third periods. However, this can vary depending on the level of play, with college and junior hockey games having shorter periods.

During each period, the clock counts down from 20 minutes to 0, and the team with the most goals at the end of the third period wins the game. In the event of a tie, the game may go into overtime, which we’ll explore in more detail later in this post.

While 20 minutes may not sound like a long time, a lot can happen on the ice in that period. With fast skating, powerful shots, and hard-hitting action, each period is sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats. Now that you know how long each period is, it’s time to dive deeper into the structure of the game and explore some of its unique features.

Regulation Periods

In ice hockey, the standard length of a regulation period is twenty minutes. There are three regulation periods in a typical game, with a total playing time of sixty minutes. However, the actual duration of a regulation period may vary depending on the level of play and the specific rules being enforced.

1. Stoppage of play: Regulation periods can be extended due to stoppage of play, including penalties, injuries, or video reviews.
2. TV timeouts: In professional ice hockey, regulation periods may also be extended due to scheduled TV timeouts.
3. Overtime: If a game is tied at the end of regulation, an additional overtime period may be played, which can be sudden-death or a set amount of time.
4. Shootouts: If the game is still tied after the overtime period, a shootout may be used to determine the winner.
5. International play: In international play, the length of regulation periods may be different, with some leagues using two 30-minute periods instead of three 20-minute periods.

It’s important to note that the clock doesn’t stop during regulation periods, except for situations such as goals, penalties, and injuries. So, the actual duration of a regulation period may be longer than twenty minutes due to these stoppages of play.

How Many Periods are There in Hockey?

Hockey is typically played in three periods in regulation time, each lasting 20 minutes.

However, there are variations of the game where different periods and lengths are used. For instance, in some international tournaments, games are played in four periods, and the lengths can vary between 10 and 15 minutes.

During the playoffs, the number of periods remains the same, but the game can go into multiple overtimes, with each overtime period lasting 20 minutes.

In the event that the game is still tied after the first overtime, subsequent overtime periods are played until a team scores a goal, and the game is declared over.

Types of Hockey Games

While most hockey games follow the standard three-period format, there are variations in the number of periods depending on the level of play and type of game. Some hockey games may only have two periods, while others may have four or more. The number of periods can also vary depending on the location or league.

International Hockey: International hockey games typically have three 20-minute periods. However, in the Olympics, the knockout rounds have a 10-minute overtime period in case of a tie. If the game remains tied, it will go into a shootout to determine the winner.

College Hockey: College hockey games have three 20-minute periods, but they may also have five-minute overtime periods if the game is tied. If the game is still tied after the overtime period, it goes into a shootout.

Minor Hockey: Minor hockey leagues, such as youth leagues or recreational leagues, may have shorter periods to accommodate younger players. For example, some leagues may have two 15-minute periods instead of three 20-minute periods.

Are There Any Breaks Between Hockey Periods?

Yes, there is a break between each hockey period. During the break, the players get a chance to rest, rehydrate, and strategize with their team.

The break between periods usually lasts about 15 minutes, but it can vary depending on the league and game rules. In some cases, the break may be longer or shorter than 15 minutes.

During the break, the ice surface may be cleaned and resurfaced to ensure the players have a smooth and safe playing surface for the next period.

The intermission break between the second and third period is typically longer and may include entertainment, such as music or games, for fans to enjoy.

Between the 1st and 2nd Periods

Zamboni: The most important thing that happens between the 1st and 2nd periods is the use of the Zamboni. This is a special vehicle that smooths and cleans the ice surface to make it safer and more playable for the players. It takes about 10-15 minutes to complete this process.

Coaches Meeting: During this time, coaches meet with their teams to discuss any necessary adjustments to their game plan, including strategies and line changes. This is a critical time for coaches to communicate their feedback to the players to optimize their team’s performance.

On-Ice Activities: Some teams may choose to utilize this break for on-ice activities such as shooting drills or stickhandling practice. This can help players stay loose and improve their skills during the game.

Fans: Fans may use this break to grab a snack or beverage from the concession stand or use the restroom. This is also a good time for fans to check out the team’s merchandise or take a break before the action heats up again.

Between the 2nd and 3rd Periods

Ice Resurfacing: After the second period ends, the ice is resurfaced to ensure the surface is in good condition for the final period.

Team Meeting: During the break, teams usually have a meeting to discuss the game so far, make any necessary adjustments to their tactics, and motivate the players for the final period.

TV Commercial Break: Broadcasters usually take advantage of this break to show commercials, and viewers can grab a snack, stretch, or use the restroom before the final period.

Zamboni Show: During the ice resurfacing, many arenas feature a “Zamboni show” where the ice-cleaning machine is driven around the rink, and sometimes even has music or lights added to make it more entertaining for fans.

How Do Overtime Periods Work in Hockey?

In the event that a hockey game is tied at the end of regulation, overtime periods are used to determine the winner of the game.

Overtime periods are played with five skaters for each team, and they continue until a team scores a goal.

If no team scores during the first overtime period, additional overtime periods will be played, with each team switching ends of the rink after each period.

In the National Hockey League (NHL), regular season games that are tied after regulation will have one five-minute sudden-death overtime period. If the game is still tied after the overtime period, a shootout will take place to determine the winner.

In playoff games, the overtime periods continue until a goal is scored, with no shootouts taking place.

Overtime periods can be intense and exciting, with both teams pushing to score the game-winning goal and secure the victory.

Regular Season Overtime

Overtime in the regular season is used to determine a winner in the event of a tie after the regulation three periods.

During regular season overtime, both teams will play with three skaters and one goaltender each for a five-minute period. If no team scores during the overtime period, the game will end in a tie.

If a team scores during the overtime period, they will be declared the winner and awarded two points in the standings. The losing team will be awarded one point in the standings.

Playoff Overtime

1. In the world of sports, there’s nothing more thrilling than the high-stakes action of playoff overtime. The intensity ramps up, and the fate of the game and the season rests on every play. With the clock ticking down, players dig deep and give everything they have to secure a victory for their team. It’s an unforgettable experience for fans and players alike, and it’s where legends are made.

2. One of the most memorable playoff overtime moments happened during the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs. The San Jose Sharks and the Vegas Golden Knights were deadlocked in a pivotal Game The Sharks found themselves down 3-0 in the third period but managed to mount a stunning comeback, sending the game into overtime. That’s when forward Barclay Goodrow became the hero, scoring the game-winning goal and sending the Sharks to the next round. It was a moment that Sharks fans will never forget and a testament to the unpredictable drama of playoff overtime.

3. Another iconic playoff overtime moment came in the 1999 NBA Finals. The New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs were tied in Game 5, with the series tied at 2-With seconds left on the clock, the Knicks had a chance to win the game, but Allan Houston’s shot clanged off the rim. The game went into overtime, where Knicks center Patrick Ewing fouled out, leaving the team without their star player. Despite the odds, the Knicks kept fighting, with Latrell Sprewell hitting a clutch three-pointer to send the game into double overtime. In the end, the Spurs prevailed, but the Knicks’ valiant effort in the face of adversity will be remembered forever.

There’s nothing like the excitement of playoff overtime in sports. The pressure, the drama, and the thrill of victory all come together in a moment that can define a season, a team, and a player. It’s where legends are made and where the impossible becomes possible.

• Intensity: In playoff overtime, the intensity on the ice or court is at an all-time high. Every shot, every pass, every hit could be the difference between winning and losing.
• Drama: Playoff overtime is filled with drama, as the fate of the game and the season hangs in the balance. One mistake or one moment of brilliance can change everything.
• Pressure: The pressure in playoff overtime is immense, with every player feeling the weight of the moment on their shoulders. The ability to handle pressure can be the difference between success and failure.
• Hero: In playoff overtime, heroes are made. Whether it’s a clutch goal, a game-winning shot, or a crucial save, the player who steps up in the biggest moment becomes an instant legend.
• Unforgettable: Playoff overtime moments are unforgettable, etched into the memories of fans and players alike. They are the moments that define a season and the moments that will be talked about for years to come.

Sudden Death Overtime

One of the most exciting moments in sports is when a game goes into sudden death overtime. This means that whichever team scores first wins the game. In hockey, sudden death overtime can be particularly thrilling because of how quickly the game can end. The pressure is on both teams to score, and the fans are on the edge of their seats.

In the NHL, sudden death overtime is played with 4-on-4 teams, which means that each team has four skaters and one goalie on the ice. This opens up the game and creates more opportunities for scoring. However, if no team scores during the first overtime period, the game goes into a second overtime period, which is played with 3-on-3 teams. If the game is still tied after the second overtime period, a shootout takes place to determine the winner.

• Golden goal: If a goal is scored in sudden death overtime, the game is immediately over, and the team that scored wins. This is often referred to as a “golden goal.”
• Overtime rules: Overtime rules can vary by sport, league, and even game. In the NHL, sudden death overtime lasts for 20 minutes, and there are no shootouts during the playoffs. If the game is still tied after the third overtime period, the teams keep playing until someone scores.
• Strategy: Coaches often use different strategies during sudden death overtime, such as playing more aggressively or defensively. Players need to be quick and decisive, making split-second decisions that could mean the difference between winning and losing.
• History: Sudden death overtime has been used in various sports for decades. It has provided some of the most memorable moments in sports history, such as the 1980 “Miracle on Ice” game when the U.S. hockey team beat the heavily favored Soviet Union team in sudden death overtime.
• Intensity: The intensity of sudden death overtime can be felt by everyone, from the players on the ice to the fans in the stands. It’s a high-pressure situation that can bring out the best in athletes and create lifelong memories for fans.

Sudden death overtime is one of the most exciting parts of any sports game. The stakes are high, and the pressure is on both teams to score. It’s a moment that can make or break a team’s season, and it’s always thrilling to watch.

What Happens During Intermission Between Hockey Periods?

If you’re a fan of hockey, you know that the intermission between periods is a crucial part of the game. During this break, players get a chance to catch their breath and refocus for the upcoming period. But what else happens during intermission? For starters, the ice is resurfaced to ensure that players have a clean surface to skate on. This is done by a machine called a Zamboni, which shaves off the top layer of ice and lays down a fresh layer. It’s a fascinating process to watch, and it only takes about 15 minutes.

Another important aspect of the intermission is the opportunity for coaches to strategize with their teams. They may make adjustments to their game plan or provide feedback to individual players. In addition, players have a chance to hydrate and fuel up with snacks to keep their energy levels high. And let’s not forget about the fans! During intermission, there are often contests and promotions to keep the crowd entertained and engaged.

Intermission is also a time for broadcasters to analyze the game so far and provide insights and highlights. They may interview players or coaches to get their thoughts on the game or provide stats and analysis of the action on the ice. This is a great opportunity for fans to gain a deeper understanding of the game and its players.

Overall, intermission between hockey periods is a crucial part of the game. It provides players with a chance to rest and recharge, coaches an opportunity to strategize, and fans with a chance to be entertained and informed. So, next time you’re at a hockey game or watching on TV, pay attention to what’s happening during the intermission – you might just learn something new!

Activities During Intermission

During intermission at a hockey game, there are various activities that take place to keep the crowd entertained. One of the most popular activities is the Chuck-a-Puck game. This involves fans purchasing foam pucks and throwing them onto the ice, aiming for a specific target. The person with the closest puck to the target wins a prize.

Another popular activity is the Kiss Cam. The camera scans the crowd, finding couples who are then encouraged to kiss. This often leads to a lot of cheering and applause from the audience.

For those who enjoy music, there are often live performances during intermission. These can range from local bands to well-known artists, depending on the venue and the game being played.

Activity	Description	Goal
Chuck-a-Puck	Fans throw foam pucks onto the ice to win a prize.	Get closest to the target
Kiss Cam	The camera finds couples in the crowd and encourages them to kiss.	Entertain the crowd
Live Performances	Live music performances by local bands or well-known artists.	Entertain the crowd

These activities, along with others, provide entertainment during the intermission period of a hockey game. They are designed to keep the crowd engaged and excited for the rest of the game.

How Has the Length of Hockey Periods Changed Over Time?

Professional ice hockey has been played in three 20-minute periods since the early 1920s. However, before this time, the game was played in two 30-minute halves. In the early days of the sport, the rules were still being developed and tested, and changes to the length of the game were made in order to improve the flow and excitement of the game.

Over the years, there have been some experimental variations to the length of the hockey periods. For example, during the 1950s and 1960s, the International Hockey League experimented with 15-minute periods. However, this format never caught on and was eventually abandoned.

In the 1980s, the National Hockey League experimented with a modified format in which games were played in three 15-minute periods, followed by a five-minute overtime period if the game was tied. However, this format was also abandoned after a few years due to concerns about the physical toll that the extra period was taking on players.

Today, the standard length of an NHL game is still three 20-minute periods, but there are now provisions for overtime periods in the case of a tie game. Overtime periods are played at full strength, with five skaters from each team on the ice. If the game is still tied after the overtime period, a shootout is held to determine the winner.

Historical Overview of Hockey Period Lengths

Ice hockey has evolved since its early beginnings in the late 1800s. One aspect that has undergone changes is the length of the playing period. Initially, games were played in two 30-minute halves. By the early 1900s, the game was played in two 20-minute periods with a 10-minute intermission.

In 1911, the National Hockey Association began playing in three 20-minute periods. The National Hockey League continued the tradition when it was formed in 191However, during the 1942-43 season, the league introduced a 15-minute intermission between the first and second periods.

In 1994, the NHL extended the length of the overtime period from 5 to 10 minutes. In 2000, the league also introduced the concept of a shootout to determine the winner of a tie game during the regular season.

Frequently Asked Questions