DEFINITION: Playoff series in hockey refers to a set of games played between two teams in the postseason, following the regular season. The winner of the series advances to the next round until a champion is determined.
FAQs:
1. How many games are played in a playoff series?
In the National Hockey League (NHL), a playoff series is typically a best-of-seven format. This means that the first team to win four games out of seven advances to the next round.
2. How are home-ice advantages determined in a playoff series?
The team with the better regular season record is usually given the home-ice advantage in each series. This grants them the privilege to host more games at their own arena and potentially gain a competitive edge.
3. Can a playoff series end in a tie?
No, a playoff series cannot end in a tie. If the teams are tied after the regulation time in a game, they will go into overtime until a goal is scored, leading to a decisive winner.
4. How many playoff series are there in the NHL postseason?
The NHL postseason consists of multiple playoff series. The exact number depends on the total number of teams that qualify for the playoffs and the structure of the tournament in a particular season.
5. What happens if a team wins all the games in a playoff series?
If a team wins all the games in a playoff series, it is referred to as a “sweep” or a “four-game sweep.” The winning team then advances to the next round, while the losing team is eliminated from the playoffs.
