In hockey, PP stands for “power play”. It refers to a situation in the game where one team has a numerical advantage over the other due to a penalty being called on the opposing team. During a power play, the penalized team must play with one less player on the ice, giving the other team an opportunity to score a goal.
FAQs:
1. How does a power play occur?
During a hockey game, if a player commits a penalty such as slashing, tripping, or hooking, the referee will assess a penalty and send that player to the penalty box. This leads to a power play for the opposing team.
2. How long does a power play last?
A power play typically lasts for two minutes, unless the team committing the penalty receives multiple penalties simultaneously, resulting in a longer power play for the opposing team.
3. How many players are on the ice during a power play?
The team on the power play has a numerical advantage and can have up to five skaters on the ice compared to the usual six. The penalized team must play with only four skaters plus one goaltender.
4. What strategies are commonly used during a power play?
Teams on the power play often utilize strategic formations to create scoring opportunities, such as the “umbrella” or “diamond” formation. They focus on quick puck movement, creating passing lanes, and setting up players in scoring positions.
5. Can the penalized team regain a player before the power play expires?
If the team on the power play scores a goal, the penalized player can return to the ice, and the teams will revert to even strength. However, if the power play time expires before a goal is scored, the penalized player must remain in the penalty box until the next stoppage of play.
6. Can a team score multiple goals during a power play?
Yes, it is possible for a team to score multiple goals during a power play. If the penalized team commits another penalty while already on a power play, the opposing team receives a two-man advantage, greatly increasing their scoring chances.
7. Can the team on the power play still be penalized?
Yes, both teams can still receive penalties during a power play. If the team on the power play commits a penalty, the power play ends, and both teams will play with four skaters aside until the penalty expires.
BOTTOM LINE:
A power play in hockey occurs when one team has an advantage over the other due to a penalty. The penalized team must play with one fewer player on the ice, creating scoring opportunities for the team on the power play. Strategies, formations, and quick puck movement are used to maximize the advantage. Power plays last for two minutes, unless multiple penalties are assessed. Both teams can still receive penalties during a power play.