As any hockey fan knows, the game of hockey is an intense and fast-paced sport.
But what happens when the action slows down and the players need a break? How long is hockey intermission? In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the length of intermission for various hockey leagues, what players do during intermission, and the importance of intermission during playoffs and other hockey events.
So, if you’re curious about the length of hockey intermission and what happens during those breaks, you’ll want to keep reading!
Table of Contents
Short Answer
Hockey intermissions usually last for 15 to 18 minutes in the NHL.
This is the time when the teams change ends and the ice is resurfaced.
It’s also when coaches make adjustments and players rest and rehydrate during the game.
During the intermission, fans may also see entertainment such as music, dancing, and contests.
What is Hockey Intermission?
Hockey intermission is the break between periods of a hockey game.
It is a time where teams can take a break from the action of the game, review game strategies, rest, and refuel.
During intermission, teams will often review their strategies and tactics, make adjustments based on their performance in the previous period, and discuss how to improve their game.
Intermission is also a great time for fans to take a break from the game, grab a bite to eat or a drink, and chat with friends.
Intermission is an important part of the game and the length of intermission depends on the level of hockey being played.
In the NHL, intermission is usually 15 minutes long and in minor leagues, intermissions may be as short as 10 minutes.
The length of intermission will also depend on the type of game being played, such as a regular season game or a playoff game.
During playoff games, intermission is typically longer than regular season games.
Intermission is also used to allow for any needed repairs or replacements of equipment.
Teams may use the break to swap out broken sticks or any other pieces of equipment that might need to be replaced.
During intermission, teams may also use the break to review video footage and analyze what went well and what needs improvement.
Intermission is an important part of the game and the length of intermission will vary depending on the level of hockey being played and the type of game.
During intermission, teams can take a break from the action of the game, review game strategies, rest, and refuel.
Intermission is also used to allow for any needed repairs or replacements of equipment.
NHL Intermission Length
When it comes to NHL hockey, intermission is usually 15 minutes long.
During this time, teams often take a break to review game strategies, rest, and refuel.
This is especially important since NHL games are usually quite physical and intense.
During intermission, teams also use the time to discuss any needed adjustments to their strategies.
This can include changing lines or revising defensive and offensive approaches.
In addition, teams may also use the time to evaluate the performance of individual players.
This allows the coaches to make any necessary changes in order to improve the team’s performance.
During intermission, players may also take the opportunity to stretch, warm up, and rehydrate.
This helps them to stay in top physical condition and be ready for the next period.
Finally, teams may also use intermission to change goalies if needed.
This can help to give the team a fresh start and keep the game exciting.
All in all, intermission in the NHL is a crucial time for teams to regroup and make any needed adjustments before the next period.
Minor League Intermission Length
In minor league hockey, the intermission length is usually 10 minutes.
This is shorter compared to the NHL, which has a 15-minute intermission.
During intermission, teams can take the time to review game strategies, rest, and refuel.
Typically, the teams will use the 10-minute intermission to discuss the tactics from the previous period and make any necessary adjustments.
They may also use this time to rest their players, give them a chance to catch their breath, and refuel with snacks and drinks.
The shorter intermission time also allows the teams to keep up the pace of the game, as they do not need to take as much time to reset and prepare for the next period.
This can keep the spectators engaged, as they do not have to wait long for the action to start again.
It is important to note that the intermission length can vary depending on the league.
Some leagues may have longer intermissions if they have more time available.
However, for the most part, the intermission length is usually set to 10 minutes for minor league hockey.
Re-Energizing During Intermission
When it comes to hockey intermission, it is not just about taking a break.
It is also about re-energizing and refocusing on the game ahead.
For NHL teams, the 15-minute break between periods provides an opportunity for players to rest, review strategies, and refuel.
During intermission, players will often eat a snack such as a protein bar or banana to refuel their energy levels.
They will also review the game plan and make any necessary adjustments.
In addition, teams may use the break to do towel drills and other exercises to keep their muscles warm and ready for the next period.
This helps to prevent injuries and ensure that players are at their peak performance for the remainder of the game.
By using the intermission to their advantage, teams can ensure they are in the best position to make a comeback or maintain their lead for the remainder of the game.
Reviewing Strategies During Intermission
Hockey intermission is the perfect opportunity for teams to evaluate their performance and make adjustments.
During this break, coaches and players can review game strategies, assess their performance, and make adjustments accordingly.
Depending on the level of hockey being played, teams may have as little as 10 minutes to review and assess their performance, or as long as 15 minutes in the NHL.
At both the professional and amateur levels, teams often take the time to review game strategies and look at their performance from the first period.
This helps them to identify any areas for improvement, and make adjustments for the second period.
Coaches and players can also review the strategies of their opponents, and adjust their own strategies to better counter the opposition.
Teams also use intermission to rest and refuel, making sure that their players are well-rested and energized heading into the second period.
During intermission, players can stretch, grab a snack or drink, and even take a quick nap if necessary.
This helps ensure that they are in peak condition for the rest of the game.
By taking the time to review game strategies, rest, and refuel during intermission, teams can be better prepared for the second period and beyond.
This can help ensure that they have the best chance of success in the game, and that they are able to make the necessary adjustments to gain an edge over their opponents.
Intermission Breaks During Playoffs
When it comes to the playoffs, there is a lot at stake and the games are often much longer and more intense than regular season games.
Because of this, the intermission break is longer during the playoffs than it is during the regular season.
In the NHL, intermission is usually 18 minutes long during the playoffs, giving teams much more time to rest and strategize.
At the lower levels of hockey, intermission length can vary depending on the league.
For example, in the North American Hockey League (NAHL), intermission is 15 minutes long during the regular season but increases to 20 minutes long during the playoffs.
Additionally, teams may take longer intermission breaks if they are trying to make a comeback.
During these breaks, teams can get extra rest and discuss strategies for the remainder of the game.
It is not uncommon for teams to take as long as 25 minutes to rest and strategize when they are in a close game.
Intermission breaks can also be used for other purposes.
Often times, teams may use the extra time to review game footage from the previous period or even review footage from earlier games in the series.
This can be incredibly helpful for teams when it comes to making adjustments and developing strategies.
Finally, during the playoffs, intermission breaks can be used to give fans a break.
During these breaks, teams often have special activities or entertainment planned to give fans a break from all the intensity of the game.
This can be anything from live musical performances to interactive games.
No matter the level of the hockey game, intermission breaks are an essential part of the game.
They give teams a chance to rest, review game footage, strategize, and even entertain fans.
The length of intermission breaks can vary from 10 minutes in minor leagues up to 25 minutes in the playoffs, depending on the game and situation.
Intermission Breaks During Other Hockey Events
Hockey intermission isn’t just for games; it’s important for other hockey events as well.
During major tournaments, such as the Stanley Cup playoffs or the Olympics, intermission breaks are usually 20 minutes long.
This allows teams to take the time to review game strategies, rest, and refuel.
During these tournaments, the intermission break is also used by the referees to review rules, make decisions, and discuss any other issues that may have arisen during the game.
When it comes to exhibition games, intermission breaks can be even longer.
These games are often used as a way to give teams more time to practice and hone their skills; so intermission breaks can range from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the game.
During exhibition games, teams also often have more time to rest and refuel, as well as strategize for the upcoming game.
Finally, when it comes to youth hockey, intermission breaks can be as short as five minutes.
This is because youth hockey games are shorter in length, and the breaks are used to give the players a chance to rest and refuel.
However, these intermissions may be longer if the game is particularly close or if the referees need time to review a play.
Final Thoughts
Hockey intermission is an integral part of the game – it allows teams to rest, refuel, and review strategies.
The length of intermission varies depending on the level of hockey being played.
In the NHL, intermission is usually 15 minutes long, while in minor leagues, intermission may be as short as 10 minutes.
During playoffs and other hockey events, intermission breaks may be longer.
Knowing how long hockey intermission is can help teams and fans alike prepare for the game and be ready for the next period.