The NHL hockey season typically lasts for several months, from October to April, with playoffs extending into June. Here are five supporting facts about the length of the NHL hockey season:
1. Regular Season: The NHL regular season spans over 82 games for each team.
2. Exhibition Games: Prior to the regular season, teams participate in a few exhibition games, usually around six or seven, to prepare for the season.
3. All-Star Break: The NHL All-Star break usually occurs in late January or early February and lasts for a few days, providing players with a short break.
4. Playoffs: The NHL playoffs comprise multiple rounds of best-of-seven series, which can extend the season for teams that progress through the playoffs. The playoffs usually start in April and conclude in early June.
5. Potential Overtime: If games during the regular season or playoffs end in a tie after three periods, they proceed to an overtime period, potentially adding extra time to the length of the season.
FAQs about the length of the NHL hockey season:
1. When does the NHL hockey season start and end?
The NHL hockey season typically starts in early October and concludes in early April, spanning over six months.
2. How many games are played during the NHL regular season?
Each team plays a total of 82 games during the NHL regular season.
3. Are there breaks during the NHL season?
Yes, there is a break called the NHL All-Star break, typically occurring in late January or early February, allowing players a few days off.
4. How long can the NHL playoffs extend the season?
The NHL playoffs usually start in April and can extend the season by about two more months, with the final series often concluding in early June.
5. What happens if a regular-season or playoff game ends in a tie?
If a game ends in a tie after three periods, it proceeds to an overtime period. If a team scores during overtime, they win the game. Overtime allows for a clear winner instead of tying games.
6. Why do the NHL playoffs last longer than the regular season?
The NHL playoffs consist of multiple rounds of best-of-seven series, where teams compete against each other until one team wins four games. This extended format contributes to the longer duration of the playoffs.
7. How does the length of the NHL season compare to other professional sports leagues?
The NHL season is relatively similar in length to other major professional sports leagues like the NBA (basketball) and MLB (baseball). However, it is shorter than the NFL (football) season, which spans over 17 weeks, including playoffs.
BOTTOM LINE: The NHL hockey season lasts for several months, stretching from October to April. With 82 games per team during the regular season and potential overtime periods, the season can extend even further. Furthermore, the playoffs can add approximately two more months to the length of the season, with the finals often concluding in June.
