In ice hockey, a team’s standing in a league is primarily determined by a points system. A regulation win awards a team two points. An overtime or shootout win also grants two points. If a team loses in overtime or a shootout, it receives one point, often referred to as an “overtime loss” point. A regulation loss yields zero points. This system ensures that teams are rewarded for victories, and a small consolation is given for a closely contested loss beyond regulation time.
The implementation of this points system serves multiple purposes. It incentivizes winning, as victories provide the greatest point accumulation. It also acknowledges the value of competitive play, granting a single point to teams that push their opponents beyond the standard 60-minute regulation time. Historically, various points systems have been used, evolving over time to better reflect team performance and competitive balance. The current system balances the relative importance of winning and avoiding regulation losses, aiming to provide a fairer and more accurate representation of team standings.