7 days ago
NHL's new overtime format discards three-on-three play, includes new time period and other rules
NHL's new overtime format discards three-on-three play, includes new time period and other rules (Image Source: Getty)
While the final series between Edmonton Oilers and Florida Panthers has already started, the overtime format changes that NHL had introduced this year should not be forgotten. As there are high chances of both teams reaching overtime, it is better to recall the recent changes in the OT format that NHL has recently made.
Unlike earlier, where games lasted for full overtime periods, NHL has made changes in the format to improve game time and avoid long hours. As per the changes, there won't be any three-on-three play or shootouts after five minutes of no scoring. These two instances which were accepted in the regular season, are no more applicable for OT format.
Recalling overtime changes made by NHL during 2025 season
As per the overtime rule in NHL, two teams that go into overtime will have 15 minutes to rest before the overtime starts.
During these 15 minutes, the ice is resurfaced, and the game starts. Both teams will be at full strength, which means each team will have three forwards, two defenses, and one goalie. There won't be any three-on-three play like the NHL games used to have before.
Each overtime period will last for 20 minutes or till someone scores. There won't be any shootouts if both teams fail to score within the first five minutes. In case no one scores in the first overtime, there will be an intermission of 15 minutes and then the entire process will be repeated.
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There will be a total of five overtime periods, with teams changing sides in each overtime. In case there's still no score in the five-on-five overtime period, double overtime periods will start.
There can be a sudden death included, but it might take time.
Garry Bettman states new overtime rule to avoid player injury and fatigue (Image Source: NHL News via X)
In 2025 alone, at least 17 games went into overtime periods, with three double overtime periods, and each time the new rules were followed. The new changes in the overtime has made it easier for teams to perform without getting exhausted.
Besides, there have been several overtime records set, for which NHL had to make this decision.
One of the most remarkable overtime was that of 1936 semifinals between Detroit and Montreal Maroons which had six overtime periods that lasted for 116 minutes with 30 seconds of overtime. Now with the changed rules, better and shorter OT periods can be expected.
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