How Long Does an NHL Game Last?
The duration of an NHL game depends on several factors and is hard to say with certainty on how long it should last. The average NHL game tends to last somewhere between two to two and a half hours, depending on the teams playing, the weather, and other such factors.
Factors That Determine the Length of a Hockey Game
The length of an NHL game may vary depending on the following factors:
- Intermissions: The number of intermission periods and their duration ultimately determines the amount of time per game. Generally, each period has an eighteen-minute time limit, though this varies slightly by league.
- Team Strength: When two teams are evenly matched, they often play at a faster pace, leading to a quicker game than one where one team dominates the others.
- Weather: If the weather is colder, teams may go for a more defensive style of play and take longer shifts, making the game much longer.
- Goaltending: The opposing team’s goaltending can also play a role in the length of a game. If the goalie is playing well, then the game may take longer to finish.
- Scoring Opportunities: If there are more opportunities to score then the game will be played at a more aggressive and fast-paced style of play leading to a quicker game overall.
How Long is an Overtime Period?
In the event of a tie, the game will go into an overtime period. NHL overtime period lasts for anywhere between five to twenty minutes, depending on the type of overtime session the game will go through. The overtime period can be a four on four, three on three, or a sudden-death session, depending on the league and the game.
Summary
The length of an NHL game may vary depending on several factors such as intermissions, team strength, weather, goaltending, and scoring opportunities. The average game tends to last somewhere between two to two and a half hours. In the event of a tie, an overtime session may be played, lasting for anywhere between five to twenty minutes depending on the type of overtime session.
