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NHL Playoff Overtime Rules, Results, and Longest Games (2026)
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The NHL Stanley Cup playoffs bring a thrilling change to the overtime format. Unlike regular-season games or the Olympics, the playoffs eliminate 3-on-3 overtime and shootouts, opting for a sudden-death, 5-on-5 format that can lead to incredibly long and intense games. This article breaks down the rules, highlights recent overtime results from the 2026 playoffs, and revisits some of the longest games in NHL history.
Key Insights
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Playoff overtime is 5-on-5 sudden death: No more shootouts or 3-on-3 play. Games continue until someone scores.
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Recent 2026 playoff overtime games: Several games have already gone to overtime, including multiple double-overtime contests.
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Longest games in NHL history: Some games have lasted over 100 minutes of overtime, showcasing incredible endurance and determination.
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The debate around shootouts: There's a growing sentiment that shootouts don't belong in hockey, even in the regular season, with many fans preferring longer overtime or even ties.
Why this matters: Understanding the overtime rules and appreciating the history of long playoff games adds to the excitement of watching the Stanley Cup playoffs. The debate around shootouts also highlights the evolving preferences of hockey fans.
In-Depth Analysis
How NHL Playoff Overtime Works
If a game is tied after three periods, the teams take a 15-minute intermission for ice resurfacing. Overtime periods are 20 minutes long and played 5-on-5 (unless penalties occur). The first team to score wins. Teams switch ends after each overtime period. All goals are reviewed by the NHL Situation Room to ensure they are legally scored.
2026 NHL Playoff Overtime Results
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April 26: Ducks 4, Oilers 3 - Ryan Poehling scored in the first overtime.
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April 25: Wild 3, Stars 2 - Matt Boldy scored in the first overtime.
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April 24: Canadiens 3, Lightning 2 - Lane Hutson scored in the first overtime.
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April 22: Stars 4, Wild 3 - Wyatt Johnston scored in the second overtime.
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April 21: Avalanche 2, Kings 1 - Nicolas Roy scored in the first overtime.
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April 21: Lightning 3, Canadiens 2 - J.J. Moser scored in the first overtime.
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April 20: Hurricanes 3, Senators 2 - Jordan Martinook scored in the second overtime.
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April 19: Canadiens 4, Lightning 3 - Juraj Slafkovsky scored in the first overtime.
Longest NHL Playoff Games
1.
Six overtimes (116:30) - 1936 Semifinals: Detroit 1, Montreal Maroons 0
2.
Six overtimes (104:46) - 1933 Semifinals: Toronto 1, Boston 0
3.
Five overtimes (92:01) - 2000 Conference Semifinals: Philadelphia 2, Pittsburgh 1
4.
Five overtimes (90:27) - 2020 First Round: Tampa Bay 3, Columbus 2
5.
Five overtimes (80:48) - 2003 Conference Semifinals: Anaheim 4, Dallas 3
The Shootout Debate
The NHL introduced the shootout in 2005 to eliminate ties, but its appeal has waned, particularly in traditional hockey markets. Many fans and analysts argue that the shootout is anticlimactic and doesn't truly reflect the game's essence. Some propose longer overtime periods or even a return to ties. The Champions Hockey League has implemented a "No Return Rule" in overtime to prevent teams from retreating into the neutral zone, potentially leading to more offensive play.
FAQs
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Q: How long are NHL playoff overtime periods?
20 minutes.
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Q: Is there a shootout in NHL playoff games?
No, playoff games go to sudden-death overtime.
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Q: What happens if no one scores in overtime?
The teams continue to play 20-minute overtime periods until someone scores.
Key Takeaways
The NHL playoff overtime format prioritizes intense, sudden-death hockey, creating memorable moments and testing players' endurance. While the shootout remains a topic of debate for regular-season games, the playoffs offer a purer form of hockey that many fans appreciate. Understanding the rules and history of playoff overtime enhances the viewing experience.
Key actions: Stay informed about the latest overtime games and results. Engage in discussions about the shootout debate and potential rule changes.
Discussion
Do you think the NHL should eliminate shootouts altogether? Share your thoughts below!
Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!
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