What Is a Powerplay in Hockey? Explained

What is a Powerplay in hockey

If you’ve watched a hockey game, you’ve probably heard the term “powerplay” thrown around. But if you’re new to the sport or just want a clearer explanation, you might be wondering: What exactly is a powerplay in hockey?

Let’s break it down in simple terms, explain how it works, and explore some key facts about it.

What is a Powerplay in Hockey?

In hockey, a powerplay is a situation where one team has more players than the other. This happens when a player on the opposing team gets penalized and is sent to the penalty box. As a result, the team with the extra player gets a temporary advantage, known as the powerplay.

Simply put, if one player commits an infraction, the opposing team will have a chance to play with an extra player (usually for 2 to 5 minutes). This extra player allows the team to control the game and create scoring chances, as they have more space on the ice.

The team on the penalty kill (the team without the extra player) is said to be “shorthanded” because they are at a disadvantage with fewer players on the ice.

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What is a powerplay in hockey

How Does a Powerplay Work?

A powerplay starts when a penalty is called, and a player is sent to the penalty box. The duration of the penalty depends on the severity of the infraction, but it typically ranges from 2 to 5 minutes. While the penalized player serves their time, the team with the powerplay enjoys a numerical advantage.

Faceoff and Positioning

When a powerplay begins, the faceoff takes place in the offensive zone of the team on the powerplay. The team with the extra player typically tries to set up their offense quickly to create scoring opportunities.

During the powerplay, the team with more players will often pass the puck around, looking for open shooting lanes, and try to take advantage of the extra space on the ice. The team on the penalty kill will try to block shots, block passing lanes, and clear the puck out of their zone as often as possible to kill the penalty.

Types of Penalties That Lead to Powerplays

A powerplay happens when a player on the opposing team commits a penalty. Some common infractions that result in a powerplay include:

  • Tripping
  • Hooking
  • Slashing
  • High-sticking
  • Interference

These are all considered minor penalties, and they result in a 2-minute powerplay. More serious penalties, like fighting or dangerous hits, may result in major penalties, which last 5 minutes.

Powerplay Duration

The length of a powerplay can vary based on the type of penalty assessed:

  • Minor Penalty: 2 minutes. The player must serve the full penalty unless the opposing team scores before the time expires.
  • Double Minor Penalty: 4 minutes. This is typically given for high-sticking when the opposing player is injured and bleeding. If the team on the powerplay scores during the first 2 minutes, the penalty is reduced to 2 minutes.
  • Major Penalty: 5 minutes. This penalty is for serious infractions, such as hits to the head or fighting. Even if the team on the powerplay scores, the penalized player must remain in the box for the full 5 minutes.

Powerplay Strategies

When a team is on a power play, they will often use specific strategies to maximize their scoring chances. Some common strategies include:

  • Umbrella Formation

In this strategy, one defenseman stays at the blue line, while the others form a “U” shape in the offensive zone. The idea is to move the puck quickly and look for open shots.

  • 1-3-1 Powerplay

This is one of the most common setups. It involves one defenseman at the point, three forwards across the middle, and one player in front of the net. The player in front of the net (often a big body) tries to screen the goalie or collect rebounds.

  • Overloading the Puck Side

In this strategy, the team will focus its players on one side of the ice to create confusion for the shorthanded team. This often leads to open shots or passes.

  •  Quick Passing and Shooting

One of the keys to a successful powerplay is quick passing and taking shots on goal. By passing the puck quickly, the powerplay team can catch the penalty killers out of position and create more scoring chances.

nhl hockey powerplay

What Happens if a Powerplay Team Scores?

If the team on the powerplay scores, the player serving the penalty is immediately released from the penalty box. For example, if a player receives a 2-minute minor penalty and their team allows a goal, the penalty ends as soon as the goal is scored.

However, in the case of a major penalty, the penalized player must remain in the box for the full duration, regardless of how many goals are scored during the powerplay.

What Does “Shorthanded” Mean?

When a team is on the penalty kill, they are referred to as being “shorthanded.” While being shorthanded is a disadvantage, it doesn’t mean the team can’t score.

A team can score a shorthanded goal if they manage to get a breakaway and score while down a player. These types of goals are less common but are certainly exciting when they happen.

FAQs

How long does a powerplay last in hockey?

A powerplay typically lasts for 2 to 5 minutes, depending on the penalty. Minor penalties are 2 minutes long, while major penalties can last 5 minutes. If a team scores during the powerplay, the penalized player can leave the box earlier in the case of minor penalties.

Can a team have a powerplay if the other team has no penalties?

No. A powerplay occurs only when the opposing team has a player in the penalty box. If no penalties are called, both teams play with an equal number of players on the ice.

What is a powerplay goal?

A powerplay goal is a goal scored by the team with more players on the ice, taking advantage of the opposing team’s penalty.

What is a good powerplay percentage?

A good powerplay percentage is typically above 20%, meaning that a team scores on the powerplay about 1 out of every 5 opportunities. Teams with higher powerplay percentages, like the Edmonton Oilers, can sometimes exceed 30% efficiency

What happens if a team scores shorthanded?

If a team scores a shorthanded goal, the team still on the powerplay must continue with the powerplay until the penalty expires. The player serving the penalty does not leave the box, even if a goal is scored.

Conclusion

A powerplay is one of the most exciting aspects of hockey. It gives the team with the advantage a chance to dominate the game and score, thanks to the extra player on the ice. Whether it’s a 2-minute minor penalty or a 5-minute major, the powerplay opens up more scoring opportunities, making hockey even more fast-paced and thrilling.

Understanding powerplays helps you appreciate the strategies and excitement behind the game, whether you’re watching from home or at the rink.



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