How Many Games In A National Hockey League Season

So, there I was, a few weeks into my first season as a die-hard hockey fan, and I was loving every minute of it. I mean, who wouldn't? The speed, the skill, the sheer excitement of it all. But then, I looked at the calendar and realized, "Wow, there's a lot of games in a season!" And that, my friends, is what we're here to talk about today.

So, How Many Games Are We Talking About?

Alright, let's dive right in. A full National Hockey League (NHL) season, from start to finish, includes a whopping 82 games per team. Yes, you read that right. Eighty-two. That's more than twice the number of games in an NBA season, and almost three times as many as in the MLB. Now, I know what you're thinking, "That's a lot of hockey!" And you're not wrong.

But wait, it gets even more interesting. You see, the NHL season is divided into two main parts: the regular season and the playoffs. The regular season, as we've established, is 82 games long. But the playoffs? That's a whole 'nother story.

Regular Season vs. Playoffs: What's the Difference?

The regular season is where it all begins. It's a grueling, 82-game marathon where every team plays each other at least twice (once at home, once away). It's a test of endurance, skill, and strategy. And at the end of it all, the top three teams from each of the league's four divisions, along with two wild card teams from each conference, advance to the playoffs.

The playoffs, on the other hand, are a best-of-seven elimination tournament. It's intense, it's dramatic, and it's where the real magic happens. The Stanley Cup Playoffs, as they're officially known, can add up to an additional 28 games for the teams that make it all the way to the Finals. That's right, folks. We're talking about a potential 110 games in a single season. Now that's what I call a long winter.

Watch National Hockey League - Season 2025/26 - NY Rangers v Florida

But Why So Many Games?

You might be wondering, "Why so many games, though? Isn't that a bit... much?" Well, it's all about the money, honey. I mean, it's about maximizing revenue, increasing viewership, and giving fans the most bang for their buck. More games mean more opportunities for teams to make money, and for fans to enjoy the sport they love.

Plus, let's not forget about the parity in the NHL. The league is designed to be competitive, with every team having a shot at making the playoffs. Having a long season allows for more upsets, more comebacks, and more drama. It's what keeps things interesting, even when your team is on a losing streak.

So, Are You Ready for Some Hockey?

Alright, so now you know. The NHL season is a long, grueling, exciting, and sometimes exhausting journey. But that's what makes it so special. It's not just about the Stanley Cup Finals. It's about the grind, the ups and downs, the highs and lows of an 82-game season. So, grab your jerseys, get your popcorn ready, and buckle up. Because in the NHL, it's not just a game. It's a marathon.