Hockey is a fast-paced, action-packed sport enjoyed worldwide, from local ice rinks to the Olympic stage. But one common question arises for new fans and seasoned spectators alike: How many periods are in hockey?
This article explores the structure of a standard hockey game, the rules for periods, and how they vary across leagues. We’ll also break down what each period means for the game, from scoring opportunities to player strategies.
How Many Periods in Hockey?
In hockey, the game is divided into three main periods. Each period consists of 20 minutes of play, resulting in a total of 60 minutes. This structure is standard across most major hockey leagues, including the NHL (National Hockey League), and is used at professional, collegiate, and international levels. These three periods keep the game organized, allowing for breaks in between to maintain players’ stamina and give teams time to regroup and strategize.
Why Are There Only Three Periods in Hockey?
The three-period format in hockey is different from other sports like basketball or soccer, which often use quarters or halves. The structure is designed for the fast, physical demands of hockey. Each 20-minute segment allows players to exert maximum energy on the ice, knowing that they’ll have a break before the next period starts. This format also accommodates the intense nature of the sport and allows for ice resurfacing between periods, which keeps gameplay fair and safe for all players
What Happens During Intermissions?
After each period, hockey has a break known as an intermission. These breaks last about 15 to 18 minutes, allowing players to rest and coaches to discuss strategies. During intermissions, fans are often entertained with arena activities, and it’s also a time for the ice to be resurfaced with a Zamboni to ensure a smooth playing surface for the next period.
| Period | Intermission Duration | Purpose |
| After 1st | 15-18 minutes | Player rest, ice resurfacing |
| After 2nd | 15-18 minutes | Strategy planning, fan activities |
Are There Overtime Periods in Hockey?
Yes, overtime periods exist in hockey, but they vary by league and the stakes of the game. In the NHL, if the game is tied after the third period, a sudden-death overtime is played. During the regular season, overtime lasts for five minutes, with teams playing 3-on-3 (instead of the usual 5-on-5), which increases the chances of scoring quickly.
If no team scores in overtime, the game proceeds to a shootout. However, in playoff games, overtime periods continue until one team scores, with no limit on the number of overtime periods.
How Does a Shootout Work in Hockey?
When a game remains tied after overtime in regular-season NHL games, a shootout occurs. A shootout consists of each team taking turns with three penalty shots, where one player faces off against the goalie in a one-on-one setup. If the teams are still tied after three shots each, they continue with additional rounds until one team wins. The shootout format adds excitement for fans and often determines the final outcome of closely contested games.
How Do Periods in Playoff Hockey Differ?
In playoff hockey, the structure changes slightly. While the regular season can end in a shootout, playoff games go into continuous overtime if teams are tied after the third period. Overtime periods in the playoffs are 20 minutes long, just like the regular periods, but the game only ends when one team scores, adding a layer of suspense and intensity that fans love.
What Is the Importance of Each Period in Hockey?
Each period in hockey comes with a unique rhythm and set of strategies. Let’s break down the significance of each:
First Period: Teams start with fresh energy and usually focus on feeling out the opposition’s strategy. Coaches may hold back their best plays, saving their strategies for later.
Second Period: The game often picks up speed as players settle in. Strategies become more aggressive, with players trying to take advantage of any weakness spotted in the first period.
Third Period: Often the most intense, especially if the game is close. Teams push hard for a win, and if they’re behind, they may take more risks.
| Period | Focus | Typical Strategies |
| First Period | Testing the opponent | Conserving energy, studying opponent |
| Second Period | Gaining a lead | More aggressive play, tighter defense |
| Third Period | Deciding the game outcome | Risk-taking, intense focus on scoring |
Are Periods the Same in Other Hockey Leagues?
Most professional and international hockey leagues follow the three-period structure, but variations can occur. Some amateur or youth leagues may use shorter periods to accommodate younger players’ endurance levels. Here’s a look at some differences:
College Hockey: Similar to professional hockey, with three 20-minute periods and overtime in tied games.
International Hockey: Follows the three-period format with slight adjustments in rules based on the tournament.
Youth Hockey: Period lengths are often shorter (10-15 minutes each) to fit the endurance and skill levels of young players.
Conclusion: How Many Periods in Hockey
In summary, hockey is structured into three intense periods, each lasting 20 minutes. This format allows players to perform at their best without exhausting themselves. The three-period structure is standard across leagues, with overtime and shootouts to resolve ties. Knowing the breakdown of these periods helps fans understand the flow of the game and the strategies behind each team’s play.
FAQs: How Many Periods in Hockey
Why does hockey have three periods instead of four quarters?
Hockey’s three-period format allows for a fast-paced game, accommodating players’ stamina and the need for frequent ice resurfacing. This structure makes hockey unique and helps maintain a high level of action.
What happens if a game is still tied after a shootout?
In the regular season, a tie in the shootout means the game ends with no winner. But in playoff games, ties lead to more overtime periods until a team scores. How long are hockey games with overtime?
Overtime can add anywhere from 5 minutes to over an hour, depending on how many extra periods are played. Some intense games have gone to five or more overtime periods, especially in playoffs.
Are there different rules for overtime in college hockey?
Yes, college hockey uses a 5-on-5 overtime format for five minutes in regular-season games, and some leagues might go to a shootout if the score remains tied.
