Understanding NHL overtime rules: How they differ in regular season and playoffs

NHL overtime is where the game reaches peak intensity. The fast-paced 3-on-3 battles of the regular season contrast with the grueling, sudden-death showdowns of the playoffs, making each moment electrifying. But what exactly are the differences between the two formats? From shootouts to marathon playoff thrillers, let’s break down how NHL overtime works and why it’s one of the most exciting aspects of the sport.


Overtime in the NHL operates differently from other major sports, and even within the league itself, the rules vary between the regular season and the playoffs. These unique overtime structures have evolved over the years, creating intense and unpredictable finishes that keep fans on the edge of their seats.
The concept of overtime in the NHL dates back to 1921 when a 20-minute sudden-death period was introduced. This was later reduced to 10 minutes in 1927 and further shortened to five minutes in 1983. Up until 2005, tied games could end in a draw, but that changed when the NHL introduced the shootout to ensure every game had a definitive winner. Additionally, since 2015, the league has transitioned to a 3-on-3 format for regular-season overtime, enhancing the excitement and increasing scoring opportunities.
Let’s break down how NHL overtime works and the key differences between the regular season and the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

In the regular season, when a game remains tied after three 20-minute periods, it proceeds to overtime; a five-minute period played in a fast-paced 3-on-3 format. The first team to score wins, instantly ending the game. If neither team scores within the five-minute period, the game moves to a shootout, where each team selects three players to take penalty shots. If the score remains tied, the shootout continues in a sudden-death format until a winner is decided.
Teams that reach overtime automatically earn one point in the standings. The team that secures an overtime or shootout victory gains an additional point, making an overtime loss slightly more rewarding than a regulation defeat.
Penalties during overtime result in the infringing team losing a skater, temporarily shifting play to a 4-on-3 advantage for the opposing team for the duration of the penalty.

Overtime in the Stanley Cup Playoffs follows a completely different structure. There are no shootouts in playoff hockey. Only pure, high-stakes action. Instead of the five-minute period seen in the regular season, playoff overtime consists of full 20-minute sudden-death periods, played 5-on-5. The game continues until one team scores, instantly securing the victory. If no goal is scored, additional overtime periods are played until a winner emerges.
Penalties in playoff overtime follow standard regulation rules, meaning the penalized team goes on a penalty kill while the opposing team gains a power play opportunity.
This format has led to some of the most legendary moments in hockey history, where games stretch into multiple overtime periods, testing the endurance and resilience of players.
Whether it’s the fast-paced 3-on-3 battles of the regular season or the grueling sudden-death marathons of the playoffs, NHL overtime delivers some of the most thrilling moments in sports.
Also Read:Coach Joe Sacco denies Trent Frederic Trade is to Blame for Boston Bruins’ devastating defeat