1. A game consists of three periods of 20 minutes plus overtime and a penalty-shot shootout if required.

2. Two teams compete to score the most goals in a game. The team that scores the superior number is declared the winner.

3. To score a goal, a team must put the puck by legal means according to the rules into the goal net of its opponent (for exceptions see Rules 179 and 180 - "Awarded Goals" ).

4. Skaters control the puck on their stick and work their way down the ice by passing, shooting, and skating.

5. Bodychecking is an integral element of the game. It is the most common method of gaining control of the puck. For a bodycheck to be legal, it must meet a series of criteria specified by these rules.

6. Players and team officials who violate the rules are punished by the on-ice officials or, in more serious cases, by the proper authorities.