Hockey Game Length Explained: Periods And More

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Post on Feb 09, 2025

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Hockey Game Length Explained: Periods and More

So, you're new to hockey, or maybe you've watched a few games and are still wondering, "How long is a hockey game, really?" It's not as simple as just saying "60 minutes." There's a lot more to it than that! This comprehensive guide will break down the length of a hockey game, including periods, stoppages, and everything in between. Let's dive in!

Understanding the Three Periods

A standard hockey game is divided into three 20-minute periods. That's right, just 60 minutes of actual playing time. However, the total game time is significantly longer due to stoppages.

What Happens During Stoppages?

Stoppages are frequent in hockey. They happen for a variety of reasons, including:

• Face-offs: These occur after a whistle is blown, restarting play.
• Icing: When a player shoots the puck from behind the center red line and it crosses the opposing team's goal line before any opposing player touches it.
• Offsides: When a player enters the offensive zone before the puck.
• Penalties: When a player breaks a rule, resulting in a penalty. This can range from minor penalties (2 minutes) to major penalties (5 minutes) and even game misconducts or match penalties.
• Injuries: If a player is injured, play is stopped for medical attention.
• Goal reviews: Sometimes, officials review a potential goal using video replay, causing delays.

These stoppages add considerable time to the overall game length.

Beyond the 60 Minutes: Total Game Time

Because of these frequent stoppages, a typical NHL hockey game can last anywhere from 2 hours and 15 minutes to 2 hours and 45 minutes, or even longer! This significantly impacts the total viewing time. Factors influencing this extended time include:

• Number of Penalties: A penalty-filled game will naturally take longer.
• Injury Timeouts: Serious injuries inevitably lead to lengthy delays.
• Number of Goal Reviews: Video reviews can add several minutes to the game.
• The Pace of Play: A fast-paced, high-scoring game will have fewer stoppages, resulting in shorter game time.

Overtime and Shootouts

If the game is tied after regulation (60 minutes), overtime is played.

Overtime Rules

Overtime rules vary depending on the level of play. In the NHL, a 5-minute, 4-on-4 overtime period is played. If the score remains tied, a shootout ensues.

Shootouts: Sudden Death

A shootout is a sudden-death format where each team takes turns attempting to score on the opposing goaltender. The team that scores first wins. A shootout can be a relatively quick way to end a game, sometimes only lasting a few minutes.

Intermission Breaks

Don't forget the intermissions! There are two intermission breaks between the periods, usually lasting around 15-20 minutes. This is a great time to grab snacks, use the restroom, or strategize your next bet (if you're into that sort of thing).

Key Takeaways: How Long is a Hockey Game Really?

While the playing time is 60 minutes, plan for a total game duration of at least 2 hours and 15 minutes, and possibly much longer. The unpredictable nature of the stoppages and potential overtime and shootouts means you should allow ample time in your schedule for a full hockey game experience. Now you're equipped to answer the question, "How long is a hockey game?" with confidence!