National Hockey League rules facts for kids

The National Hockey League (NHL) is a professional ice hockey league in North America. While it follows most of the general rules of ice hockey, there are some differences compared to international games. These international games are organized by the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF), like those played at the Olympics. These special rules make NHL games exciting and unique!

What Makes NHL Rules Different?

The NHL has its own rulebook that helps make the game faster and more exciting for fans. These rules are often a bit different from the ones used in international hockey. Let's explore some key differences.

Ice Rink Size

One of the biggest differences is the size of the ice rink.

• In the NHL, the rink is 200 feet long and 85 feet wide.
• International rinks are usually wider, at 200 feet long and 100 feet wide.

A narrower rink means players have less space, leading to more action and physical play!

Icing Rules

Icing is when a player shoots the puck from their own half of the ice all the way down to the opponent's goal line without anyone touching it.

• In the NHL, they use "hybrid icing." This means if a player from the team that shot the puck reaches the face-off dots in the offensive zone before an opponent, icing is waved off. If the opponent reaches it first, the play is stopped, and the puck goes back to the other end.
• In international play, "no-touch icing" is used. The play stops immediately once the puck crosses the goal line, no matter who gets there first. Hybrid icing in the NHL keeps the game flowing more!

Trapping the Puck

Players are allowed to trap the puck with their hand.

• In the NHL, a player can cover the puck with their hand if they are in their own defensive zone. They cannot do this in the offensive or neutral zones.
• In international games, players can only cover the puck with their hand if it's an accident.

Fighting in Hockey

Fighting is a part of NHL hockey, though it's not allowed in many other sports.

• In the NHL, players who fight receive a five-minute penalty. They are usually allowed to stay in the game after serving their penalty.
• In international hockey, fighting is strictly forbidden. Players who fight are usually thrown out of the game.

Overtime and Shootouts

When a game is tied after three periods, the rules for overtime are different.

• In the NHL, regular season games go into a five-minute overtime period with three skaters per side. If it's still tied, there's a shootout where players take turns trying to score on the goalie.
• In international play, overtime often lasts longer (10 or 20 minutes) and usually involves more skaters (four or five per side). Shootouts are also used if the game is still tied.

Player Equipment and Safety

Player safety is very important in hockey.

• In the NHL, players must wear helmets, but they can choose whether to wear a visor (a clear shield for the face). Many veteran players choose not to wear one.
• In international games, all players must wear a full face mask or a visor. This rule helps protect players' faces from injuries.

Penalties and Discipline

Penalties are given when players break the rules.

• The NHL has specific rules for different types of penalties, like tripping, hooking, or slashing. These usually result in a two-minute penalty.
• The league also has a Department of Player Safety that reviews plays and can give out fines or suspensions for serious rule violations. This helps keep the game fair and safe.