Every guide
Hockey guides
Rules, numbers and game day answers for new hockey fans. Each guide is checked against official NHL sources.
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How much does the Stanley Cup weigh?
The Stanley Cup weighs 34.5 pounds (15.56 kg) and stands 35.25 inches tall. See its parts, the three Cups and how names get engraved on the…
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How many NHL teams are there?
The NHL has 32 teams in the 2026 to 2027 season, 25 in the US and 7 in Canada. See every team by division, how the…
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NHL overtime rules explained
NHL overtime rules: regular season ties get 5 minutes of 3 on 3, then a shootout. Playoff games add 20 minute 5 on 5 periods until…
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How many players are on a hockey team?
Each hockey team has 6 players on the ice: 5 skaters and 1 goalie. NHL teams dress 20 for each game and can carry up to…
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How long is a hockey game?
A hockey game has 60 minutes of play in three 20 minute periods. Stoppages and breaks add time, and one 2026 NHL overtime game ran 2…
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How many periods are in hockey?
Hockey has three periods. NHL, college and Olympic periods last 20 minutes each. See break times, overtime rules and how kids’ games differ by level.
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Why is fighting allowed in hockey?
Fighting breaks NHL rules and costs a five minute major, but one fight does not get a player thrown out. See the rulebook, the history and…
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What is a power play in hockey?
A power play in hockey starts when a penalty leaves one team a skater short. See how 5 on 4, 5 on 3, majors and delayed…
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What is offside in hockey?
Offside in hockey happens when both of an attacker’s skates cross the blue line before the puck. Learn delayed offside, tag up and NHL review rules.
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What is icing in hockey?
Icing in hockey is when a team that is not shorthanded shoots the puck from its own half past the far goal line. Play stops for…
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How big is a hockey puck? Size, weight and what it is made of
A hockey puck is 3 inches wide, 1 inch thick and weighs 5.5 to 6 ounces. See what it is made of, why it is kept…
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What does the puck line mean in hockey?
The puck line is hockey’s spread, usually 1.5 goals. The favorite must win by 2 or more. The underdog covers with a win or a loss…