How Many Games in NHL Season
The question how many games in NHL season is one that hockey fans often ask. Every year, fans want to know how many chances their favorite teams will have to play, compete, and make it to the playoffs. The NHL has a structured schedule, but it has changed a bit over the years. This article will explain everything you need to know, from the current season to historical seasons and playoffs.
In 2024, NHL fans are curious not only about the total number of games but also about how many games each team plays, how the playoffs work, and how the schedule has changed since the past. If you are looking to understand how many games in NHL season per team, or how the playoffs affect the total, this guide has you covered
How Many Games in NHL Season Per Team
Each NHL team plays a set number of games during the regular season. Currently, each team plays 82 games in a season. These games are split between home and away matches. The schedule is designed to ensure each team competes against others in their division more often, while also facing teams from other divisions and conferences.
Knowing how many games in NHL season per team is essential for fans tracking their team’s performance, planning to attend games, or following fantasy hockey leagues.
How Many Games in NHL Season Playoffs
After the regular season ends, the top teams enter the NHL playoffs. The playoffs are a series of best-of-seven matches that determine the Stanley Cup champion. Unlike the regular season, the number of playoff games a team plays depends on how far they advance.
Teams can play anywhere from a few games if eliminated early, to 28 games if they make it to the finals and every series goes to seven games. So, if you’re asking how many games in NHL season including playoffs, it varies widely depending on performance.
How Many Games in NHL Season 2024
The NHL season 2024 follows the standard format of 82 regular-season games per team. The season started in October and will continue until April, followed by the playoffs. Each team’s schedule is carefully balanced to maintain fairness and competitiveness.
Fans often track how many games in NHL season 2024 to plan their viewing schedules and follow favorite matchups. This number remains consistent with recent seasons, except in cases of special events or interruptions.
How Many Games in NHL Season Before 1995
Before 1995, the NHL had fewer games in a season. For example, in the 1994–95 season, due to a lockout, the schedule was shortened to 48 games per team. Normally, teams played fewer than the current 82-game schedule, with some seasons consisting of 70 to 80 games.
Understanding how many games in NHL season before 1995 gives fans insight into how the league has expanded and evolved over the years.
How Many Games in NHL Season 2025
Looking ahead, the NHL season 2025 is expected to maintain the 82-game regular-season schedule. Fans can anticipate a similar format for home and away games, with playoffs following the same structure.
If you want to know how many games in NHL season 2025, it’s safe to expect 82 regular-season games plus potential playoff games depending on team performance.
How Many Games in NHL Season 2022
The NHL season 2022 faced some challenges due to COVID-19 and schedule adjustments. Most teams were able to play the full 82-game schedule, but some games were rescheduled or postponed.
Knowing how many games in NHL season 2022 helps fans compare past seasons with current ones, tracking how teams adapted to changing circumstances.
How Many Games in NHL Season This Year
Every year, fans ask how many games in NHL season this year. Currently, the NHL maintains 82 games per team during the regular season, with playoffs beginning after the season ends in April. Scheduling may vary slightly due to special events or arena availability, but the total remains consistent.
FAQs
How many games are in an NHL regular season?
Each team plays 82 regular-season games.
How many playoff games can a team play in NHL?
A team can play up to 28 playoff games if they reach the finals and every series goes the distance.
Has the number of games always been the same?
No, the number of games has changed over time, especially during lockouts or special seasons like 1994–95.
Do all teams play the same number of games?
Yes, in a regular season, every team plays 82 games.
Are playoff games included in the total season games?
Playoff games are additional and vary depending on how far a team progresses.
Conclusion
Understanding how many games in NHL season helps fans, players, and analysts keep track of the sport. Each team plays 82 games in the regular season, and playoff games add additional excitement and variability. Historical seasons, such as those before 1995, had fewer games, but today the schedule is standardized. Whether you’re tracking how many games in NHL season per team, following the 2024 season, or planning for 2025, knowing the schedule is key to enjoying hockey to the fullest.
From regular-season matchups to playoff intensity, the NHL offers a thrilling experience for fans, and knowing the number of games helps everyone stay connected to the action.
