NHL

The NHL operates under a comprehensive concussion protocol developed in conjunction with the NHLPA. Any player suspected of sustaining a concussion is removed from play and evaluated by a team physician in a quiet room.

Assessed when a minor penalty infraction results in an injury to the opposing player (most commonly high-sticking that draws blood). The penalized player serves four minutes.

Any check in which the principal point of contact is the head of an opponent is prohibited, regardless of whether the head was targeted intentionally. Elbowing an opponent in the head is subject to severe penalties and supplementary discipline.

All player equipment must meet standards established by the NHL and certified by recognized testing organizations. Helmets must be HECC-certified and properly fitted.

Play begins at the start of each period and resumes after each stoppage with a face-off. The visiting team's center places their stick on the ice first.

An NHL regular season game consists of three 20-minute periods of play with two intermissions of 18 minutes each. Each team plays 82 regular season games (the final season at this number before the planned expansion to 84 games beginning in 2026-27).

A game misconduct results in ejection from the game. A match penalty is assessed for deliberate intent to injure and also results in ejection, with the matter referred to the NHL Department of Player Safety for potential supplementary discipline (fines or suspensions).

A goal counts as one point for the scoring team. The player who shoots or last touches the puck before it enters the net is credited with the goal.