Differences Between Nhl And Olympic Hockey
Hockey is a sport loved and played by many people around the world. There are different leagues and tournaments where hockey is played, including the National Hockey League (NHL) and the Olympic Games. While the basic rules and gameplay of hockey are the same in both of these contexts, there are some differences between NHL and Olympic hockey. In this article, we will discuss these differences in detail.
The Players
The first difference between NHL and Olympic hockey is the players. NHL teams are made up of professional players who are paid to play the game. These players come from different countries and are selected by teams through a drafting system. On the other hand, Olympic hockey teams are made up of amateur players who represent their countries. These players are not paid to play hockey and are chosen by their respective national associations.
The Rules
While the basic rules of hockey apply to both NHL and Olympic hockey, there are some subtle differences. In NHL hockey, the rink is smaller than Olympic rinks. The NHL rink measures 200 feet by 85 feet, while Olympic rinks measure 200 feet by 100 feet. In addition, NHL games allow for fighting, while Olympic hockey games do not. This means that if players engage in a fight during an Olympic game, they will be penalized and possibly suspended.
The Duration
The duration of NHL and Olympic hockey games also differs. NHL games involve three 20-minute periods, while Olympic hockey games are divided into three 15-minute periods. In addition, NHL games may go into overtime if there is no winner after three periods, while Olympic hockey games have a 10-minute overtime period followed by a shootout if necessary.
The Schedule
Another difference between NHL and Olympic hockey is the schedule. NHL teams play regular season games from October to April, followed by playoffs that can last until June. In contrast, the Olympic hockey tournament is played over a two-week period every four years. This means that players in the NHL have a more rigorous schedule and play more games than players during the Olympic hockey tournament.
The Atmosphere
The atmosphere of NHL and Olympic hockey games is also different. NHL games are played in front of thousands of fans in indoor arenas. The fans are typically loyal supporters of their home team and create a lively atmosphere with chants and cheers. On the other hand, the Olympic hockey tournament takes place in a neutral location, and fans from different countries come together to cheer on their respective teams. This creates a unique and energetic atmosphere that is different from NHL games.
Conclusion
In conclusion, NHL and Olympic hockey have some differences in terms of the players, rules, duration, schedule, and atmosphere. While the basic rules and gameplay of hockey are the same in both contexts, these subtle differences contribute to the unique experiences of watching and playing hockey in different settings. Whether you are a fan of NHL hockey or Olympic hockey, both offer excitement and thrill that cannot be found in any other sport.
