What is a power play in hockey?
How a power play starts
A power play begins when a player is sent to the penalty box for a minor penalty, which normally lasts two minutes. The team that committed the penalty plays shorthanded until the time runs out or the other team scores. A goal by the power-play team usually ends a minor penalty early.
Major penalties last five minutes and are often served in full, even if a goal is scored. A misconduct penalty works differently because the player leaves the box but a teammate may not replace him right away.
- Minor penalties last two minutes
- Major penalties last five minutes
- A goal by the power-play team can end a minor early
- Two minors on one team can create a five-on-three
Why power plays matter
Teams on the power play usually have more room and more time with the puck, which creates better shots near the net. Many fans and coaches track power-play percentage as a key stat because it shows how well a team uses its advantage.
A short-handed goal can happen when the penalized team scores during its disadvantage, which can change the momentum of a game quickly.
Common mistakes
- Assuming every penalty lasts two minutes, when majors and some misconducts work differently.
- Confusing a power play with a penalty shot, which is a one-on-one chance after a breakaway foul.
