If you’ve ever watched hockey, you might have asked yourself: how long do hockey games last? Unlike some sports with a fixed clock, hockey can feel unpredictable. Between periods, stoppages, and overtime, the total time a game takes might surprise you. In this guide, we’ll break down the official timing, common variations, and even why some games last longer than others.
Whether you’re a new fan or just curious about NHL rules, this article makes everything simple and clear. We’ll also answer your most common questions about hockey game length and offer some fun insights along the way.
Table of Contents
Standard NHL Game Length
In professional hockey, including the NHL, a standard game has three periods of 20 minutes each. That’s 60 minutes of playing time. But the real-world game lasts much longer due to stoppages, commercial breaks, and intermissions.
Average total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Breakdown:
- Periods: 3 × 20 minutes = 60 minutes
- Intermissions: 2 × 15–18 minutes = 30–36 minutes
- Stoppages & TV breaks: ~40–60 minutes
So, while the clock shows 60 minutes, watching a full game is a longer commitment.
What Affects Hockey Game Duration?
Several factors can extend how long hockey games last:
- Penalties & power plays: Frequent penalties stop the clock.
- Injuries: Play stops while players are attended to.
- Commercial breaks: TV broadcasts add a few minutes.
- Overtime & shootouts: Extra periods extend the game.
These delays are why fans often experience games taking over 3 hours.
Intermissions Explained
Hockey games include two intermissions, one after each period. These breaks allow players to rest, the ice to be cleaned, and fans to grab snacks. Each intermission is usually 15–18 minutes long.
Intermissions might seem short, but they’re essential for maintaining game speed and ice quality.
Overtime Rules
If a game is tied after three periods, overtime comes into play. In the NHL:
- Regular season: 5-minute sudden death (3-on-3)
- Playoffs: 20-minute sudden death (5-on-5) until a goal is scored
Overtime can add anywhere from 5 minutes to multiple periods, which is why playoff hockey games can last 4 hours or more.
Shootouts and Game Length
If overtime doesn’t decide the winner in the regular season, a shootout follows. Each team takes turns attempting to score in a penalty shot format. Shootouts usually last 5–10 minutes but can feel much longer due to tension and fan excitement.
Differences in International Hockey
Hockey leagues outside the NHL, like the KHL or Olympics, might have slightly different rules:
- Periods are still 20 minutes.
- Overtime rules vary by tournament.
- Shootouts may have fewer rounds.
Understanding these differences is key if you follow international games.
Minor Leagues and College Hockey
Shorter game durations are common in minor leagues or college hockey:
- Periods may remain 20 minutes, but intermissions can be shorter.
- Fewer commercial breaks reduce total game length.
These games often finish closer to 2 hours.
Factors That Fans Notice
Fans often notice that hockey feels faster than the clock suggests. Here’s why:
- Continuous action: Unlike football, play is mostly nonstop.
- Frequent line changes: Players rotate often to maintain speed.
- Clock stoppages: Icing, penalties, and goals stop the clock.
All these combine to make hockey games longer than just 60 minutes.
Real Example: NHL Game Timing
A typical NHL game on TV:
- Start: 7:00 PM
- 1st intermission: 7:20 PM
- 2nd intermission: 8:10 PM
- End: 9:30–9:45 PM
Fans often plan for 2.5–3 hours, including overtime and commercials.
Quick Tips for Watching Hockey
- Check if the game might go into overtime.
- Expect 2.5–3 hours for a standard game.
- Snacks and bathroom breaks are easier during intermissions.
Planning ahead helps fans enjoy the full experience without surprises.
Conclusion
So, how long do hockey games last? Standard NHL games last 60 minutes on the clock but typically run 2.5–3 hours including intermissions, stoppages, and possible overtime. Playoffs can extend games further. Understanding these details helps you enjoy hockey without feeling rushed.
Next time you watch a game, keep a timer in mind, grab some snacks, and enjoy every fast-paced moment. Hockey is more than just minutes—it’s excitement on ice.
FAQs
1. How long is a hockey game including intermissions?
A full NHL game usually lasts 2.5–3 hours including intermissions and stoppages.
2. How long does overtime last in hockey?
Overtime is 5 minutes in regular season games (3-on-3). Playoff overtime is 20 minutes (5-on-5).
3. Why do some hockey games last longer than others?
Factors like penalties, injuries, TV commercials, and overtime can extend the total game time.
4. How long are intermissions in hockey?
Each intermission lasts 15–18 minutes in the NHL.
5. How long do shootouts take?
Shootouts typically last 5–10 minutes but can feel longer depending on the number of rounds.
6. Are international hockey games the same length as NHL games?
Mostly yes—three 20-minute periods—but overtime and shootout rules vary by league and tournament.
