NHL playoff overtime rules
Definition
The regulations in the National Hockey League (NHL) Stanley Cup Playoffs dictating that tied games after three 20-minute regulation periods proceed to sudden-death overtime: full 5-on-5 play (barring penalties) in consecutive 20-minute periods separated by 15-minute intermissions, continuing indefinitely until the first goal is scored, with no shootout.
Distinct from regular-season overtime, which features 3-on-3 play for five minutes followed by a shootout; playoff rules prioritize marathon endurance to determine a definitive winner in each game.
Examples
The NHL playoff overtime rules turned a sleepy tie into a four-period epic that had fans glued to their seats longer than a bad blind date.
Under NHL playoff overtime rules, goalies become superheroes, facing shots in sudden death while the crowd holds its collective breath.
Explaining NHL playoff overtime rules to my soccer friends: it's hockey's way of saying 'no ties allowed, let's see who cracks first.'
NHL playoff overtime rules are why I invest in a comfy couch and a snack subscription before the postseason kicks off.