The NHL's overtime rules are a fascinating aspect of the sport, often leading to dramatic and unexpected outcomes. In 2026, the playoffs have seen a variety of overtime scenarios, with some games lasting well into the extra time. This article delves into the intricacies of NHL overtime, highlighting the longest games and the players who have made their mark in these crucial moments.
The Overtime Format
In the NHL, if a game is tied after three periods, it enters overtime, which lasts for 20 minutes of 5-on-5 play. If no goals are scored in the first overtime, the game continues with a second 20-minute period, and so on until a goal is scored. The teams change sides for each overtime period, adding an extra layer of strategy to the game.
The NHL Situation Room plays a crucial role in reviewing goals to ensure they are legally scored, adding an extra layer of fairness to the overtime process.
2026 Overtime Games
The 2026 NHL playoffs have been filled with thrilling overtime moments. Here are some notable games:
- May 13: Avalanche vs. Wild - Brett Kulak's goal at 3:52 of the first overtime secured Colorado's victory over Minnesota in Game 5.
- May 12: Golden Knights vs. Ducks - Pavel Dorofeyev's goal just over four minutes into the first overtime gave Vegas a 3-2 series lead.
- May 9: Hurricanes vs. Flyers - Jackson Blake's goal at 5:31 of the first overtime swept the Flyers.
- April 29: Golden Knights vs. Mammoth (2OT) - Brett Howden's goal at 5:28 of the second overtime gave Vegas a 3-2 lead.
- April 28: Bruins vs. Sabres (OT) - David Pastrnak's goal at 9:14 of the first overtime cut the Bruins' series deficit to 3-2.
Longest Overtime Games in NHL History
The NHL has witnessed some truly epic overtime battles throughout its history. Here are the longest overtime games on record:
- Six Overtimes (116 minutes, 30 seconds) - 1936 semifinals, Detroit vs. Montreal Maroons (March 24, 1935). Mud Bruneteau scored the winner.
- Six Overtimes (104 minutes, 46 seconds) - 1933 semifinals, Toronto vs. Boston (April 3, 1933). Ken Doraty scored the winner.
- Five Overtimes (92 minutes, 1 second) - 2000 conference semifinals, Philadelphia vs. Pittsburgh (May 4, 2000). Keith Primeau scored the winner.
- Five Overtimes (90 minutes, 27 seconds) - 2020 first round, Tampa Bay vs. Columbus (August 11, 2020). Brayden Point scored the winner.
- Five Overtimes (80 minutes, 48 seconds) - 2003 conference semifinals, Anaheim vs. Dallas (April 24, 2003). Petr Sykora scored the winner.
- Four Overtimes (79 minutes, 47 seconds) - 2023 conference finals, Florida vs. Carolina (May 18, 2023). Matthew Tkachuk scored the winner.
Longest Stanley Cup Final Games
The Stanley Cup Final has also seen its fair share of overtime drama. The longest game in Stanley Cup Final history was in 1990, when the Edmonton Oilers defeated the Boston Bruins 3-2 in the third overtime, with Petr Klima scoring the winning goal at 15:13.
Players with the Most Overtime Goals in 2026
Several players have stood out in the 2026 postseason for their overtime goals:
- 5 Goals: Corey Perry, Lightning
- 4 Goals: Leon Draisaitl, Oilers (all in 2025 playoffs, an NHL record)
- 3 Goals: Brayden Point, Lightning; Jordan Staal, Hurricanes; Anze Kopitar, Kings; Artemi Panarin, Kings; Matt Duchene, Stars
In conclusion, the NHL's overtime rules create a thrilling and unpredictable element to the playoffs. The 2026 season has showcased the drama and excitement that can unfold in these extra moments, with some games lasting well into the extra time. The players who excel in overtime situations become legends, leaving their mark on the sport's history.
