DEFINITION: Hockey Overtime
Hockey overtime refers to an additional period played to determine the winner of a game when the score remains tied at the end of the regulation time of three periods.
FAQs:
1. What is the purpose of hockey overtime?
The purpose of hockey overtime is to break the tie and determine a clear winner in a game that ends in a draw during the regulation time. This ensures fairness and avoids the game being declared a tie.
2. How long is the overtime period in hockey?
The length of the overtime period in hockey varies depending on the league and level of play. In most professional leagues, including the NHL, the overtime period consists of five minutes of sudden death play, meaning the first team to score wins. However, in certain leagues or tournaments, the overtime period might be longer.
3. What happens if there is no winner during hockey overtime?
If no team manages to score during the overtime period, the game is usually decided by a shootout. Each team selects a few players to take penalty shots against the opposing goaltender, and the team with the most goals at the end of the shootout is declared the winner.
4. Is overtime played in all hockey games?
Overtime is not played in all hockey games. In regular-season games of some leagues, if the score remains tied at the end of regulation, the game may go directly to a shootout to determine the winner. However, in playoff games, overtime is commonly used to ensure a decisive outcome.
5. Can teams make substitutions during hockey overtime?
Yes, teams can make substitutions during hockey overtime just like they can during the regular periods of the game. Coaches can rotate players and change lines to optimize their strategies and maintain the team’s energy levels. However, due to the sudden-death nature of the overtime period, substitutions are generally made less frequently to avoid potential disruptions.
