Ice Hockey: Rules and how it works
Browse SportsMonkie's rules and how it works about ice hockey, organized in one crawlable topic hub.
14 articles in this topic.
How Many Periods Are in a Hockey Game? NHL Rules Explained
How many periods are in a hockey game: three 20-minute periods, how long intermissions last, and how NHL overtime and shootouts settle ties.
Types of Shots in Ice Hockey: Every Shot Explained
The main types of shots in ice hockey are the wrist shot, slap shot, snap shot, backhand, one-timer, wraparound, and deflection. Full breakdown here.
What Is a Deke in Hockey? Meaning, Types, and Examples
A deke in hockey is a fake move used to skate past a defender or goalie. Learn the term's origin, the main types of dekes, and how they're used.
What Is a One-Timer in Hockey? Definition & How It Works
A one-timer in hockey is a shot fired directly off a teammate's pass with no puck control first. How it works, why it's hard to stop, and how to practice one.
What Is a Slap Shot in Hockey? Mechanics, Speed & Records
A slap shot in hockey is a full wind-up shot built for maximum puck speed. Learn the technique, how it compares to a wrist shot, and NHL speed records.
What Is an Empty Net Goal in Hockey? Rules, Strategy, and Records
An empty net goal in hockey is scored when the net has no goaltender in it. Learn when teams pull the goalie, the delayed-penalty rule, and NHL records.
What Is Backchecking in Hockey? Meaning, Purpose & Technique Explained
Backchecking in hockey is when a player skates hard back to their own zone to defend after losing the puck. Learn the rules, technique, and why it matters.
What Is Cross-Checking in Hockey? NHL Rule Explained
Cross-checking in hockey is using the stick shaft with both hands to shove an opponent; learn the NHL rule, penalties, and how it differs from slashing.
What Is Forechecking in Hockey? Systems and Roles Explained
Forechecking in hockey is pressuring the puck carrier in the offensive zone to force a turnover. Learn the F1-F2-F3 roles and the 1-2-2, 2-1-2, and 1-3-1 systems.
What Is High Sticking in Hockey? The Rule Explained
High sticking in hockey is contact above the shoulders with the stick blade. Learn the minor vs. double-minor penalty, exceptions, and the puck-height stoppage rule.
What Is the Crease in Hockey? Rules, Size, and Goalie Interference
What the crease in hockey is, its official 8x4.5-foot dimensions, who can legally stand in it, and how NHL goalie interference rules actually work.
What Is the Neutral Zone Trap in Hockey? Rule and Strategy Explained
The neutral zone trap in hockey is a defensive system that clogs the neutral zone to force turnovers, run as a 1-2-2 or 1-3-1 formation.
Power Play in Hockey Explained: The Rule, Simply
What a power play means in hockey, how long minor, double-minor, and major penalties last, and when a power-play goal ends the penalty early.
Icing in Hockey Explained: The Rule, Simply
What icing in hockey means, how the NHL's hybrid icing race-to-the-dot call really works, when it's waved off, and how NHL, IIHF, and NCAA rules differ.