It’s so exciting when an NHL game goes into overtime isn’t it? It’s like the universe wanted to squeeze in a bit more sport-action and excitement for us to enjoy! Have you ever stopped to wonder just how often NHL games actually end in overtime? It’s a lot! But it depends on the season, the specific matchup and the teams playing. Ice hockey is an intense, unpredictable battle that often leads to overtime thrillers.
On average, about 18 to 20 percent of NHL games finish in overtime. During the 2019-2020 season about 500 out of 2468 games—which is nearly 20 percent—were decided in overtime. This number tends to hold true for the majority of NHL seasons. During the 2018-2019 season, of the 1243 regular-season games, 262 resulted in overtime. What’s interesting is that the ratio of postseason games ending in overtime tends to decrease slightly. During the 2018-2019 playoffs, for example, there were 35 overtime games in total.
The reason why more regular-season games goes into overtime compared to post-season games is because of the reduced number of physical and mental exhaustion playoff games involves. Playoff games are ultra-competitive with each team giving their all and leaving no stone unturned, so to speak. In a sense, the intensity of regular-season games are toned-down a bit, which opens up the possibility of seeing games go into extra time.
Many NHL fans are hoping for more games to end in a shootout end result. So far, only 33.6 percent of overtime games since 2005 have been decided via a shootout, while the rest were won within the 4-on-4 or 3-on-3 structure. For example, during the 2018-2019 season, only 31 out of the 262 overtime games finished in a shootout. That’s only 11.7 percent of total overtime games that season.
The numbers of nhl shop games ending in overtime differs significantly each season, depending on the team matchup, stamina and the on-ice physicality of the game. For example, some matchups might create more physicality in their gameplay and thus, reducing the aspect of overtime chances. On the other hand, teams may be more inclined to score during the regular season, boosting their chances of winning within overtime scenarios.
Although the numbers of cheap nhl jerseys overtime games shifts season to season, it’s still a significant amount each year. This highly-anticipated aspect of the game brings out lots of good-natured passion from the fans and really adds more spice to the matchup!
Crowds are highly energized when it comes to overtime games in the NHL. It can get pretty noisy in the stadium, with loud cheering or groans depending on what’s happening on the ice. Everyone wants to see their team come away with the win, and send everyone home happy! It’s a win-win situation as there’s such added tension and drama when games go into overtime. You never know who’s going to come out on top!
Even if you’re not an avid ice hockey fan, watching a game go into overtime can be extremely entertaining. Whether it’s at home or in person inside an NHL stadium, the atmosphere is always electric. With the lights down low and the deep bass from the jumbotrons, it gives the feeling of suspense, making you feel like you’re in the arena with the team.
Overtime games are often deciders that require the players to give it their all. Teams usually go all out in order to secure the most important points of the season. And when the teams go into extra time, it gives the players an opportunity to showcase their skills on the ice, pulling off miraculous shots and backhanders.
It’s a given that overtime games is a crucial part of the NHL season as it’s the biggest platform for teams to shine or to struggle. It also gives retiring players the chance to go out with a bang as they seek to claim one final victory. And the more games that goes into overtime, the more agony and ecstasy will be shared between fans as they celebrate the glory of their favourite team.
One thing is for sure, whenever two teams come to play a NHL game, it could also mean a possible overtime. And that’s why so many of us love the game and the anticipation it offers at every game. From the coaches to the players, everyone is in it to win it! Now that’s an exciting prospect, don’t you think?
But how do teams prepare for such intense overtime matches? Well, some teams prefer to practice shooting drills and refine their offensive plays to increase their chances of winning in the overtime period. Other teams prefer to beef up their defensive strategies to ward off any surprise plays. Every team has their own style, and it usually pays off in overtime.
Sports analysts and fans alike agree that overtime is an inevitably important part of NHL games. It offers an opportunity for fans to unite and cheer for their team, and for players to prove their skill and prowess. And with the right strategies, teams can come out on top! That’s why overtime games are some of the most unforgettable and thrilling moments in NHL history.