Wed, 29 Apr 2026 21:32:48 +0000

How Many Periods Are in Hockey? Understanding the Structure of the Game When it comes to hockey, one of the most common questions fans have is: How many periods are in a hockey game? Whether you're a casual viewer or a dedicated fan, understanding the structure of the game—especially its period breakdown—helps you follow the action and appreciate the rhythm of this fast-paced sport. ### The Standard Answer: Three Periods In official hockey leagues such as the National Hockey League (NHL), ice hockey consists of three 20-minute periods, often referred to simply as “periods.” Each period is divided into three 20-minute segments, with a break between each to allow for strings, player substitutions, and coaching adjustments.