Difference Between Olympic Ice Hockey And Nhl
Introduction
Ice hockey is a popular sport that has captivated the hearts of millions of people around the world. Two of the most prestigious ice hockey leagues in the world are the National Hockey League (NHL) and the Olympic ice hockey tournament. While both leagues involve playing on ice, there are significant differences between how the games are played. In this article, we will explore the key differences between Olympic ice hockey and NHL, including rules, player selection, and more.
Rules
One of the main differences between Olympic ice hockey and NHL is the rules. Olympic ice hockey follows International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) rules, which differ from the NHL rules. For instance, in Olympic hockey, players are not allowed to use their hands to pass the puck in the defensive zone, while in NHL, players are allowed to use their hands in certain situations. Additionally, checking from behind is strictly prohibited in Olympic hockey, but in the NHL, it is allowed with certain restrictions. In Olympic hockey, there are no trapezoids behind the net to limit where the goaltender can handle the puck, while in the NHL, the goaltender can only handle the puck within certain areas.
Player Selection
Another major difference between the two leagues is how players are selected. In the NHL, players are signed to teams based on their skill level and experience. In contrast, Olympic hockey teams are composed of players from their respective countries, and players are selected based on their performance and skill level. This means that Olympic hockey players are often amateurs or players who do not regularly play in the NHL but have an outstanding performance in their home country's league. Comparatively, NHL rosters only allow a limited number of non-North American players, which means that the Olympics provides a stage for them to display their talents to a worldwide audience.
Tournament Format
The tournament format is also different in Olympic and NHL hockey. Olympic tournaments typically involve a round-robin format followed by a single-elimination knockout stage. In contrast, NHL play-offs consist of four rounds; the first two rounds are best-of-seven series, while the final two rounds are a best-of-seven series. Another major difference between the two tournaments is the number of teams that participate. The NHL has 31 teams, while the Olympic hockey tournament usually consists of 12 teams.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Olympic ice hockey and NHL are two different leagues with their own unique rules, player selection methods, and tournament formats. While both leagues have their own appeal and following, it is interesting to note the differences between the two leagues. Whether watching Olympic hockey for national pride or NHL hockey for the love of the sport, hockey fans around the world can appreciate the love for ice hockey that is shared.
