With the NCAA’s Frozen Four Tournament upon us, many NHL fans will be tuning in to check out some great hockey, as well as to get a preview of some of their favorite team’s prospects. If you’re a fan who hasn’t watched much college hockey, though, some of the whistles might have you scratching your head.
Here’s a summary of the key rule differences between NCAA Hockey and the NHL:
Action | NHL Rule | NCAA Rule |
Goal is scored on a delayed penalty | Goal counts, penalty is waved off | Goal counts, penalty is still served |
Hand pass in defensive zone | Legal | Play is stopped for faceoff. Offending team not permitted to change players. |
Puck over glass in defensive zone | 2:00 penalty for Delay of Game | Penalty only if deemed intentional. Faceoff in defensive zone. Offending team not permitted to change players |
Net dislodged by defending team | Play is stopped for defensive zone faceoff | Play is stopped for defensive zone faceoff. Offending team not permitted to change players. |
Fighting | 5:00 major penalty | 5:00 major penalty and game misconduct |
Defender dives, knocks puck away with stick and trips player | If puck is hit first, no penalty for tripping | Tripping may be called regardless of what happens with the puck |
Goaltender playing the puck | Only permitted below goal line when within trapezoid | No restrictions |
Hitting from Behind | Minor or Major | Minor or Major if in open ice Major + Misconduct if into boards or goal cage |
Coaches Can Request Video Review | Not available | Yes. In situations where a potentially missed offside or too many men call directly leads to a goal, coaches may use their timeout to challenge the play. |
Overtime | 4-on-4; teams remain on same side as third period. (Regular season) 5-on-5; teams switch sides (Playoffs) |
5-on-5. Teams switch sides. |
Face shields | Visors required for all new players; current players may opt out from wearing | Full face protection required |
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