How Many Periods in Hockey? A standard hockey game consists of three periods, each lasting 20 minutes of regulation play. Between these periods, there are intermissions, typically around 15 to 18 minutes, allowing teams to rest and strategize. If the game is tied at the end of three periods, overtime may be played, depending on the league rules. In the NHL (National Hockey League), regular-season overtime consists of a 5-minute sudden-death period, followed by a shootout if necessary.
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