Tag: power play rules

What Is a Major Penalty in Ice Hockey?

IHM Knowledge Center

What Is a Major Penalty in Ice Hockey?

What is a major penalty, how long does it last, and how is it different from a minor penalty?

Editor: Coach Mark • Updated: February 27, 2026

Short Answer

A major penalty is a five-minute penalty assessed for serious infractions, and it is not canceled if the opposing team scores.

Full Explanation

A major penalty is called for severe violations such as fighting or dangerous contact that could cause injury. It results in the offending team playing shorthanded for five full minutes.

Unlike a minor penalty, which ends if the opposing team scores, a major penalty continues for the entire five-minute duration regardless of how many goals are scored during that time.

Major penalties are often accompanied by additional discipline such as a game misconduct depending on the severity of the incident.

Officials may review certain plays to determine whether the infraction warrants a minor or major penalty.

Why Major Penalties Exist

The rule ensures that serious or dangerous actions carry stronger consequences and protect player safety.

Key Takeaways

  • A major penalty lasts five minutes.
  • The team plays shorthanded for the full duration.
  • Goals do not cancel a major penalty.
  • Often called for fighting or dangerous contact.

What Is a Double Minor Penalty in Ice Hockey?

IHM Knowledge Center

What Is a Double Minor Penalty in Ice Hockey?

What is a double minor penalty, when is it called, and how does it affect power play time?

Editor: Coach Mark • Updated: February 23, 2026

Short Answer

A double minor penalty is a four-minute penalty assessed for certain infractions, usually when visible injury such as bleeding occurs.

Full Explanation

A double minor consists of two consecutive minor penalties totaling four minutes. It is most commonly called for high sticking when the opponent is visibly injured.

If the non-offending team scores during the first two minutes, only the first minor is canceled and the second two-minute penalty continues.

If no goal is scored during the first two minutes, the full four minutes may be served.

Officials determine whether a double minor is warranted based on severity and evidence of injury.

Why Double Minors Exist

The rule provides additional consequences for infractions that cause injury while still allowing the power play structure to function fairly.

Key Takeaways

  • A double minor equals four minutes total.
  • Commonly called for high sticking with injury.
  • A goal cancels only the first two minutes.
  • The second minor continues if applicable.

What Is a Major Penalty in Ice Hockey?

IHM Knowledge Center

What Is a Major Penalty in Ice Hockey?

What is a major penalty, how long does it last, and how does it differ from a minor penalty?

Editor: Coach Mark • Updated: February 11, 2026

Short Answer

A major penalty lasts five minutes and does not end if the opposing team scores, unlike a minor penalty.

Full Explanation

Major penalties are assessed for serious infractions such as fighting, boarding, or dangerous hits that cause injury.

The penalized team must play shorthanded for the full five minutes, regardless of how many goals are scored by the opposing team.

This differs from a minor penalty, which typically lasts two minutes and ends early if a power play goal is scored.

Major penalties can significantly shift momentum due to the extended power play opportunity.

Why Major Penalties Matter

Because they do not expire after a goal, major penalties create sustained pressure and often determine the outcome of games.

Key Takeaways

  • Major penalty lasts five minutes.
  • Does not expire after a goal.
  • Usually assessed for serious infractions.
  • Creates extended power play pressure.