How Long Does Ice Hockey Match Last

Ice hockey matches typically last for a total of 60 minutes, divided into three periods. Here are 5 supporting facts about the duration of an ice hockey match:
1. Each period lasts for 20 minutes: In professional ice hockey, each period is 20 minutes long. The clock runs continuously during each period, except during stoppages in play.

2. Intermissions between periods: There are typically two intermissions, one between the first and second periods, and another between the second and third periods. These intermissions are usually 15 minutes long, allowing players to rest and for the ice to be resurfaced.

3. Overtime: If the game ends in a tie after the three periods, there can be overtime. In NHL games, overtime consists of a sudden death period of 5 minutes, where the first team to score wins the game. If no team scores in the overtime period, a shootout can take place.

4. Shootouts: In the event of a tie after overtime, a shootout may occur to determine the winner. Each team selects a few shooters to take penalty shots against the opposing goaltender. The team with the most goals at the end of the shootout wins the game.

5. Average game duration: Although the regulation time of an ice hockey match is 60 minutes, the actual duration can vary. Factors such as stoppages in play, penalties, and the presence of overtime and shootouts may extend the total time of the game.

FAQs:

1. How long is each period in an ice hockey match?
– Each period in a professional ice hockey match is 20 minutes long.

2. Are there any breaks during the game?
– Yes, there are two intermissions, each lasting 15 minutes, between the three periods.

3. What happens if the game ends in a tie after three periods?
– In that case, there can be overtime, which consists of a sudden death period of 5 minutes. If no team scores in overtime, a shootout may occur.

4. How does a shootout work?
– In a shootout, each team selects a few shooters to take penalty shots against the opposing goaltender. The team with the most goals at the end of the shootout wins the game.

5. Can an ice hockey match last more than 60 minutes?
– Yes, if the game goes into overtime or a shootout, the total duration can exceed 60 minutes.

6. Is there a time limit for each period?
– No, there is no specific time limit for each period. The clock runs continuously except during stoppages in play.

7. How long are the intermissions between periods?
– Each intermission in an ice hockey match typically lasts for 15 minutes.

BOTTOM LINE:
An ice hockey match lasts for a total of 60 minutes, which is divided into three 20-minute periods. Additional time may be added for overtime or shootouts if the game ends in a tie.