How does nhl points work

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: In the NHL, teams earn points based on game outcomes: 2 points for a win in regulation or overtime, 2 points for a shootout win, 1 point for an overtime or shootout loss, and 0 points for a regulation loss. This system has been in place since the 2005-06 season, replacing the previous format that awarded points for ties. The total points determine playoff qualification and seeding, with tiebreakers including regulation wins and head-to-head records.

Key Facts

Teams earn 2 points for any win (regulation, overtime, or shootout)
Teams earn 1 point for an overtime or shootout loss (the 'loser point')
Teams earn 0 points for a regulation loss
This point system was introduced in the 2005-06 season after the 2004-05 lockout
The system replaced the previous format that included ties (1 point each) and did not award points for overtime losses

Overview

The NHL points system is the method used to determine team standings throughout the regular season, ultimately deciding which teams qualify for the Stanley Cup playoffs and their seeding. The current system was implemented at the start of the 2005-06 season following the 2004-05 lockout that canceled the entire season. This replaced the previous system that had been in place since the 1999-2000 season, which awarded 2 points for a win, 1 point for a tie, and 0 points for a loss, with no points awarded for overtime losses. The change was part of broader rule modifications designed to increase scoring and reduce ties, including the introduction of the shootout to decide games still tied after a 5-minute overtime period. Historically, points systems in the NHL have evolved significantly since the league's founding in 1917, with various formats including different point values for wins and ties over the decades.

How It Works

During the NHL regular season, each of the 82 games played by every team follows the same points allocation rules. If a team wins in regulation time (three 20-minute periods), they receive 2 points while the losing team gets 0 points. If the game is tied after regulation, a 5-minute 3-on-3 overtime period follows. If a team scores during overtime, they win the game and receive 2 points, while the losing team receives 1 point (often called the 'loser point'). If the game remains tied after overtime, a shootout determines the winner. The shootout winner receives 2 points, and the shootout loser receives 1 point. This creates the possibility of 3-point games when games go to overtime or shootout, compared to 2-point games decided in regulation. The points accumulate throughout the season to determine divisional and conference standings.

Why It Matters

The NHL points system significantly impacts team strategies, playoff races, and fan engagement throughout the season. Teams trailing late in games often pull their goalie for an extra attacker, risking an empty-net goal against, because securing even 1 point from an overtime loss can be crucial in tight playoff races. The 'loser point' creates closer standings and keeps more teams in playoff contention longer, increasing fan interest and television ratings. Critics argue the system sometimes rewards mediocrity, as teams can accumulate points without winning games outright, while supporters note it encourages competitive games until the final buzzer. The points system directly determines which 16 teams qualify for the Stanley Cup playoffs and their seeding, making every point valuable over the 82-game season.