Tag: sudden death

What Happens in Overtime in Ice Hockey?

IHM Knowledge Center

What Happens in Overtime in Ice Hockey?

What happens in overtime, how long does it last, and how do regular season and playoff overtime formats differ?

Editor: Coach Mark • Updated: February 23, 2026

Short Answer

In the regular season, overtime is a five minute sudden death period played three on three. In the playoffs, overtime is full strength and continues until a goal is scored.

Full Explanation

During the regular season, if a game is tied after regulation, teams play a five minute sudden death overtime with three skaters per side.

If no goal is scored, the game proceeds to a shootout.

In the playoffs, overtime is played five on five and consists of full twenty minute periods until one team scores.

There is no shootout in the playoffs, and games can extend through multiple overtime periods.

Why Overtime Format Matters

The regular season format prioritizes excitement and time efficiency, while playoff overtime emphasizes endurance and team structure.

Key Takeaways

  • Regular season is five minutes three on three.
  • Playoffs use full strength overtime.
  • Regular season may end in shootout.
  • Playoffs continue until a goal is scored.

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.