No, a NHL hockey game cannot end in a tie. However, there have been occasions in the past where games have ended in ties, but a specific tiebreaker system has been implemented to determine a winner.
FAQs:
1. When did the NHL eliminate ties in games?
The NHL eliminated ties in regular-season games for the 2005-2006 season.
2. What tiebreaker system is currently used in the NHL?
The tiebreaker system currently used in the NHL involves overtime and a potential shootout if necessary.
3. How does overtime work in NHL games?
If a game is tied at the end of regulation time (three 20-minute periods), a five-minute sudden-death overtime period is played, with a 3-on-3 format. If neither team scores during this period, the game proceeds to a shootout.
4. What happens during a shootout?
During a shootout, each team selects three shooters to take turns attempting to score on the opposing goalie in a one-on-one situation. If the game remains tied after three rounds, the shootout continues on a sudden-death basis until a winner is determined.
5. What happens if a game is tied after overtime and a shootout?
If a game is still tied after overtime and a shootout, the game is recorded as a tie in the regular season. However, in playoff games, multiple overtime periods are played until a goal is scored to determine the winner.
6. How rare are ties in modern NHL games?
Ties are extremely rare in modern NHL games due to the implementation of the shootout format. They occur only when neither team can score during overtime and the subsequent shootout.
7. What is the purpose of eliminating ties in NHL games?
The purpose of eliminating ties was to create more excitement and prevent games from ending without a clear winner. Shootouts and overtime periods add an element of suspense and provide a decisive outcome.
BOTTOM LINE:
Although NHL games formerly ended in ties, the league eliminated ties in regular season games since the 2005-2006 season. The current tiebreaker system involves overtime and a potential shootout to ensure a definite winner. Ties are now extremely rare in modern NHL games due to these tiebreaker formats.
