DEFINITION: Playoff hockey games refer to the high-stakes, post-season games played in the sport of ice hockey, typically following the regular season, where teams compete to advance towards the ultimate goal of winning the championship.
FAQs:
1. What is the purpose of playoff hockey games?
Answer: The purpose of playoff hockey games is to determine the champion of the league by intensifying the competition among the top-performing teams.
2. How are teams selected for playoff hockey games?
Answer: Teams are selected for playoff hockey games based on their performance in the regular season. Typically, the top teams from each division or conference qualify, with wild card spots sometimes available for additional deserving teams.
3. How long do playoff hockey games last?
Answer: Playoff hockey games follow the same format as regular-season games, consisting of three periods, each lasting 20 minutes of game-time. However, due to potential overtime periods, the duration of a playoff game can vary.
4. What happens if a playoff hockey game ends in a tie?
Answer: In the event of a tie at the end of regulation time, playoff hockey games have overtime periods added until a team scores a winning goal. This sudden-death overtime format ensures a decisive outcome.
5. Can playoff hockey games be held at any time of the year?
Answer: No, playoff hockey games are typically held during the spring months, following the conclusion of the regular season. This allows for ample time to determine the playoff teams and schedule the games accordingly.
