How Long Are Hockey Games on Average?

[Devin]

I often hear different answers about game length. Can someone explain how long are hockey games typically, including breaks and overtime if needed?

 

[alinajoseph]

As you know that hockey is the most popular game and is liked by millions of people. Hockey games typically last about 2 to 2.5 hours in real time. The actual game consists of three 20-minute periods, totaling 60 minutes of play. However, stoppages, intermissions, and possible overtime or shootouts extend the total time. Professional games like those in the NHL include two 17-minute intermissions, plus commercials and reviews, making the overall experience longer for fans and viewers.

 

[Lucky]

On average, a professional hockey game lasts about 2.5 to 3 hours including stoppages, intermissions, and possible overtime. The game itself consists of three 20-minute periods of play, with two 15-17 minute intermissions in between. Delays, TV timeouts, and penalties can also add time, especially in NHL and international matches.

 

[robbin]

Hockey games typically last around 2 to 2.5 hours, including stoppages, intermissions, and possible overtime. Regulation play consists of three 20-minute periods, with breaks between each. Delays, penalties, and TV timeouts can extend the overall duration, especially in professional leagues like the NHL or international tournaments.

 

[jyoti]

Hockey games last about 2 to 2.5 hours on average.
The game has 3 periods, each 20 minutes long, plus breaks and possible overtime.

 

[niyati]

An average hockey game lasts about 2.5 to 3 hours in real time.

• Game time: 60 minutes (3 periods of 20 minutes)
• Intermissions: 2 breaks of 15–18 minutes
• Stoppages, penalties, reviews: Add extra time
• Overtime/shootouts (if needed): Adds more time

Most hockey games last around 2.5 to 3 hours.

 

[Gsusangrey]

NHL Games:

• 60 minutes of play (3x 20-minute periods)
• 17-minute intermissions
• 2.5–3 hours total with stops, OT, and shootouts

Other Leagues: Similar structure, but minor leagues may run slightly faster.

 

[david]

An average hockey game lasts about 2 to 2.5 hours, including three 20-minute periods, intermissions, and stoppages for penalties, reviews, or overtime when needed.

 

[Kevinpiterson]

An average hockey game lasts about 2 to 2.5 hours in real time. While the official playtime is 60 minutes (three 20-minute periods), stoppages, intermissions, and possible overtime or shootouts extend the total duration.