What is the Most Crucial Period in a Hockey Game?
Every period has its challenges and advantages.
When the game starts, it is essential to fire on all cylinders. Implementing your game plan, getting an early lead, and dictating the pace of the game is crucial in the first period.
The second period is a time for adjustments, tweaks to the game plan, and re-establishing your presence on the ice.
The third period has its unique mental challenges. The game is in its final stage, and in close games, victory is often earned by the mentally tougher team.
During the last period, players on both teams are physically tired and mentally worn down. The physicality of the opposing team takes a toll on your body.
A shortened bench or an unusual amount of penalty kills can place added physical and mental stress on you and your teammates.
Previous mistakes might also weigh heavy on your mind. If you allow your circumstances to dictate your play, you give the opposing team a significant mental edge in the final period.
However, elite hockey players and championship teams regroup before taking the ice in the third period. They understand what is needed to close out the game or come from behind if necessary.
These elite players know what they need to do to earn a victory and are excited for the challenge. Elite players block out distractions and approach the third period as a brand-new game.
The moment energizes them to sustain a high-motor, aggressive style of play. This “close-out” mindset separates elite teams from those who allow games to slip away in the third period.
During the 2024 NHL season, the Los Angeles Kings have placed an emphasis on third-period play. Through the first 30 games of the season, the Kings sit in second place in the Pacific Division with an 8-2 record over their last ten games.
Tough defense and a close-out mindset have been the hallmark of the Kings throughout the season. Kings left winger Kevin Fiala highlighted the importance of a “close out” mindset in the final period of play.
FIALA: “Third-period hockey is probably the most important. That’s the finish line. No matter if you’re down or up, you’ve got to rely on all the guys.”
To answer the earlier question, “Which is the most crucial period in hockey games?’ The ultimate answer is the period you are playing.
For that reason, when you enter the third period, you must let go of the first two periods and fully embrace playing at your peak to close out the game.
Between the second and third periods, take a few minutes to wind down. That time in the locker room is essential to relax your body and calm your mind.
Afterward, it’s time to reset your mindset. Tell yourself, “The first and second periods are over. It’s close-out time!”
Resetting your mindset will help you regain your perspective, refocus your attention, and re-energize your body for battle.
Related Articles on Hockey Mental Game:
- How to Create a Winning Mindset for Hockey
- Your Mindset and Finishing Hockey Games
- Hockey Mindset Tips to Play Faster on the Ice
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