Hockey is known as the fastest game on earth, and line changes play a crucial role in maintaining that speed. If you’ve ever watched a game, you might’ve noticed players coming on and off the ice at seemingly random times.
It can be confusing to understand who goes off, who comes on, and how they know when to make the switch.
Line changes, whether during a stoppage of play or “on the fly” while the game is still happening, are meticulously coordinated by coaches. Each shift typically lasts about 45 seconds, ensuring players stay fresh and maintain high energy levels.