What Is Overtime in Ice Hockey?

IHM Knowledge Center

What Is Overtime in Ice Hockey?

What is overtime in ice hockey, how is it played, and why do overtime formats differ between leagues?

Editor: Coach Mark • Updated: December 12, 2025

Short Answer

Overtime is an additional period played to determine a winner when a game is tied after regulation time.

Full Explanation

Overtime rules vary depending on the league and competition. In most professional leagues, overtime is played with fewer skaters to create more open ice and increase scoring chances.

In the NHL regular season, overtime is played 3-on-3 for five minutes. If no goal is scored, the game proceeds to a shootout. In playoff games, overtime is played at full strength with continuous sudden-death periods.

International tournaments and European leagues may use different overtime lengths or formats, including 3-on-3 or 4-on-4 play, depending on competition rules.

Because overtime is sudden death, puck possession, line changes and risk management become especially critical.

Why Overtime Matters

Overtime rewards teams that manage the puck well under pressure. Small mistakes often decide games, making overtime performance a key skill for top teams and players.

Key Takeaways

  • Overtime is used to break ties after regulation.
  • Formats vary by league and competition.
  • NHL regular season uses 3-on-3 overtime.
  • Playoff overtime is sudden death at full strength.