How does regular-season overtime change when penalties are in effect?

Teams never have fewer than three players on the ice in overtime.

• If regulation ends 5 on 3, overtime starts 5 on 3. Once strength reaches 5 on 4 or 5 on 5, at the next stoppage it is adjusted to 4 on 3 or 3 on 3, as appropriate.
• If regulation ends 4 on 4, overtime starts 3 on 3.
• If regulation ends 3 on 3, overtime starts 3 on 3. Once strength reaches 4 on 4, 5 on 4 or 5 on 5, at the next stoppage it is adjusted to 3 on 3 or 4 on 3, as appropriate.
• If a team is penalized in overtime, teams play 4 on 3. If both teams get minor penalties at the same stoppage (with no other penalties in effect), they continue 3 on 3.
• If a team is penalized so that a two-man advantage is called for, the offending team stays at three skaters and the other team is allowed five. At the first stoppage after the two-man advantage ends, strength reverts to 4 on 3 or 3 on 3, as appropriate.

Source: NHL Official Rules 2026-2027, Rule 84.3.