NHL playoff overtime is where legends are made, and the intensity of the game reaches its peak. With sudden-death overtime determining the outcome of each game, understanding the rules is essential for fans and players alike. In this Hockey 101 guide, we’ll break down the NHL playoff overtime rules, including how overtime is structured, what happens during overtime intermissions, and how the game is decided.
Structure:
In NHL playoff games, overtime follows a sudden-death format, meaning the first team to score a goal wins the game. Overtime periods are 20 minutes long. Teams play with five skaters (plus a goaltender) per side, just like during regular play. No more 3-on-3 for 5-minutes – thank you hockey gods!
Intermissions:
During playoff overtime, there is a brief intermission of approximately 15 minutes between overtime periods, during which teams can regroup, strategize, and catch their breath before returning to the ice. Of course during this time, the ice is cut.
Penalties:
Penalties in playoff overtime follow the same rules as during regulation play: if a team is penalized during overtime, they play shorthanded for the duration of the penalty unless if they score. If they score, well, then game over.
Overtime length:
Playoff overtime has no limit on the number of overtime periods that can be played. Games can theoretically continue into multiple overtime periods until a goal is scored. This is the most thrilling and exhausting part – it can go on, but it makes each shot and save more important.
Game-winning goals:
The player who scores the game-winning goal in playoff overtime becomes an instant hero, etching their name in hockey lore — especially if it’s in a game seven. Game-winning goals in playoff overtime are often remembered as iconic moments in the history of the NHL playoffs.
Playoff format reminder:
In NHL playoff series, the team that wins four games first advances to the next round.
Fun fact:
Watching NHL playoffs on overtime can be anxiety filling, especially if you’re actively watching your favorite team play. That said, don’t count on commercial timeouts to catch your breath. During overtime in the playoffs, there are no media timeouts. Buckle up, and enjoy the ride.
Summary:
NHL playoff overtime is a thrilling and unpredictable that can swing the momentum of a series in an instant. With its sudden-death format and high-stakes drama, playoff overtime is where legends are made and championships are won. By understanding the rules governing playoff overtime, fans can fully appreciate the intensity and excitement of these pivotal moments in the quest for The Cup.