NHL playoff overtime rules: Postseason hockey bracket changes OT format
The 2026 NHL playoffs mean true overtime hockey is back. Three-on-three play and shootouts are out and there could be some very long games.
The NHL 's Stanley Cup playoffs are getting underway, meaning a major change in the overtime format. Unlike the Olympics , where 3-on-3 overtime is played even in the gold medal game , the NHL switches things up in the postseason when the games matter more. There won't be any more 3-on-3 play.
It's 5-on-5 instead. There won't be any more shootouts after five minutes of scoreless overtime play. There is sudden death, and it could last a very long time.
In the 2025 Stanley Cup Final between the Florida Panthers and Edmonton Oilers , three of the first four games went to overtime , including one double-overtime game . Overall in the 2025 NHL playoffs, 20 games went to overtime , including four double-overtime games. Here's a primer on playoff hockey overtime: How does OT work in NHL playoffs?
If the score is tied after three periods, the teams go to the dressing rooms for 15 minutes while the ice is resurfaced. Overtime periods last 20 minutes or until someone scores. It's 5-on-5 play (barring penalties).