Hockey Game Timing: How Long Matches Take & Key Periods
Ever wondered how long a hockey match actually takes from first whistle to final buzzer? With pauses, breaks, and the possibility of extra time, it isn’t as simple as the 60 minutes on the clock.
If you’re new to the sport or brushing up on the basics, the structure could feel a bit technical at first. Once you know how the periods fit together and when the clock stops, it might all start to make sense.
This guide walks through the key timings you’ll see in most matches. If you’re planning to bet, remember that in the UK operators must be licensed by the Gambling Commission (UKGC), and it could help to check how a market treats overtime before you potentially place anything. Read on to learn more.
How Long Is A Hockey Match?
A standard hockey match has 60 minutes of playing time, split into three 20-minute periods.
The full experience usually lasts longer. There are two intermissions and frequent stoppages when the puck goes out of play, penalties are called, or there’s an injury. In real time, expect roughly two hours from start to finish, sometimes a little more.
If the scores are level after those 60 minutes, competitions may use overtime or a shootout to decide a winner. Formats differ by league and tournament, so the exact timing can change. That variation also explains why some betting markets settle on the 60-minute result while others include overtime and shootouts. It might be worth checking how a market defines the result before you consider getting involved.
If you do decide to try your hand at sports betting, remember to do so responsibly and within your means; never wager more than you can afford to lose.
Do Stoppages And Breaks Add Extra Time?
Yes. The official clock only runs when play is live. The moment there’s a whistle for the puck leaving the rink, an offside, a penalty, an icing call, or an injury, the clock stops and restarts with the next face-off.
On top of those pauses, there are planned intermissions between periods. These typically last around 15 minutes, though venues and events can differ slightly. Add up all the whistles and both breaks and the viewing time comfortably outgrows the 60 minutes of play.
Leagues also manage stoppages in their own ways. Television timeouts in some competitions, for example, create short scheduled pauses during periods. If you follow markets, you might see that bets are offered for the result after regulation or for the overall winner including any overtime.
How Long Does Overtime Last In Hockey?
Overtime is used to find a winner when the score is tied after regulation, and its length depends on the competition.
Many professional leagues use a short, sudden-death overtime of 5 minutes, often played three-on-three to create more open ice and quicker chances. In knockouts or finals, organisers may opt for a full 20-minute sudden-death period instead, mirroring a standard period.
If no goal is scored in overtime, a shootout can follow to settle the result. The exact sequence and number of attempts vary by league. Because formats differ, some betting markets will list prices for the 60-minute outcome alongside options that include overtime and shootouts.
What Is The Difference Between Regulation Time And Extra Time?
Regulation time is the main body of the match: 60 minutes played across three 20-minute periods.
Extra time only happens if the game is tied after regulation. It can be a brief sudden-death spell or a longer extra period depending on the competition, and if it still isn’t settled, a shootout may follow.
You’ll often see two sets of outcomes in match markets: one based on the regulation result, and another that counts overtime and any shootout.
How Long Do Hockey Match Penalties Pause Play?
When a penalty is called, play stops so the officials can signal the infraction, send the player to the penalty box, and organise the next face-off. That pause typically takes around 30 seconds to a minute, depending on how quickly things are set.
Once the puck drops again, the penalty time starts while the game continues. Common penalty lengths include:
- Minor: 2 minutes, usually creating a power play for the other team.
- Major:Â 5 minutes, served in full even if a goal is scored.
- Misconduct: 10 minutes, which affects the player but not the number of skaters on the ice.
There are also match penalties that remove a player for the rest of the game. Some situations use a delayed penalty, where the referee raises an arm but allows play to continue until the penalised team touches the puck. In those moments, the clock keeps running until the whistle is finally blown.
Bet On Sports Online
If you enjoy following live sport and want a place to explore betting markets in one spot, Mr Luck offers a clear, straightforward set-up. You can browse upcoming fixtures and in-play events across hockey, football, tennis, and plenty more, all on an interface designed to make options easy to compare.
We are licensed and regulated by the UKGC, with transparent terms and clear settlement rules. If you are new to sports betting, our guides explain how markets work, including the difference between results after 60 minutes and outcomes that include overtime or shootouts.
You can filter events, check what’s live, and manage your account with tools that help you manage your play in line with your preferences and budget. If hockey is on your list, feel free to have a look at the latest matches and see which markets fit how you like to bet. Always keep responsible gambling practices in mind.
The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.
