What is a delayed off-side and how is it cancelled?

Under Rule 6.11 (b) of the Hockey Canada Playing Rules 2026-2028, if an attacking player precedes a puck that is shot, passed or deflected into the attacking zone by a teammate, or deflected in by a defending player or on-ice official, the linesperson signals a delayed off-side (non-whistle arm fully extended above the head).

The linesperson drops the arm to nullify the off-side and allow play to continue if:

• the defending team passes or carries the puck into the neutral zone, or
• all attacking players clear the attacking zone by making skate contact with the blue-line, so the zone is completely clear of attacking players.

During a delayed off-side:

• If the puck enters the net, directly or by deflection, the goal is not allowed, because the original shot was off-side. This applies even if the attacking team cleared the zone and the arm was dropped before the puck entered the net.
• If any attacking player touches the puck or tries to gain possession of a loose puck while it is still in the attacking zone, the linesperson stops play.

Attacking players who were not off-side when the delay began must wait until it is nullified before entering the attacking zone.