How Many Games Are In An NHL Season?
The National Hockey League (NHL) is one of the most exciting and competitive sports leagues in North America. Every year, millions of fans follow their favorite teams with anticipation and enthusiasm. One common question many new fans ask is: How many games are in an NHL season? In this article, we’ll break down the structure of the NHL season, including preseason, regular season, and playoffs, and explain what it all means for teams and players.
NHL Regular Season: 82 Games Per Team
When asking, 'How many games are in an NHL season?', the answer most often refers to the regular season, where each team plays 82 games. These 82 games are split evenly between home and away matches—41 of each. This format allows for a competitive balance and a rigorous schedule that spans from early October through early April.
Preseason Games Are Not Counted In Total
Before the 82-game regular season begins, NHL teams participate in a handful of preseason games. These are typically played in September and serve to evaluate player performance, experiment with lineups, and get players back into game shape. While important in preparation, preseason games are not counted when determining how many games are in an NHL season.
Playoffs Add Additional Games
In addition to the regular season, the NHL playoffs can add up to 28 more games for teams that make a deep postseason run. The playoffs feature a best-of-seven format across four rounds, meaning a Stanley Cup-winning team could play up to 110 games in a season when combined with the regular season.
Why 82 Games? A Brief History
The NHL hasn’t always had 82 games in a regular season. The league adopted the 82-game format in the 1995-96 season after several expansions. Before that, the number of games varied depending on the number of teams and league structure. Today, 82 games offer a comprehensive schedule that allows for fair competition across divisions and conferences.
How Games Are Scheduled In An NHL Season
Games in the NHL season are scheduled to ensure each team plays against its division rivals more often while also facing teams from other divisions and conferences. Out of the 82 games, teams play 26 against division rivals, 24 against teams from the other division in their conference, and 32 games versus teams in the opposite conference.
Impact Of The 82-Game Season On Players
Playing 82 high-intensity games takes a toll on players’ bodies. Teams strategically rest players, manage injuries, and schedule rest days to maintain peak performance. The grueling nature of the NHL season is one reason why winning the Stanley Cup is considered one of the hardest achievements in professional sports.
COVID-19 And Season Adjustments
During the 2019-20 and 2020-21 seasons, the NHL adjusted the number of games due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For example, the 2020-21 season featured only 56 regular-season games. These exceptions remind fans that while the typical season includes 82 games, external factors can influence the league's schedule.
How The Number Of Games Affects Standings
With 82 games to play, every win or loss can influence a team’s playoff chances. Teams earn points throughout the season—two for a win and one for an overtime loss—which determine standings in each division and the wild card race. The long schedule allows for comebacks and makes the season interesting from start to finish.
So, how many games are in an NHL season? The standard NHL regular season consists of 82 games per team, not including the preseason or potential playoff games. This long and demanding schedule showcases the endurance and skill of professional hockey players while providing nonstop action for fans. Whether you're a new viewer or a seasoned follower, understanding the NHL's game structure enhances your appreciation for the sport and its thrilling journey to crown a Stanley Cup champion.
