Even Strength (5v5)
Play when both teams have the same number of skaters on the ice, most commonly five versus five (5v5). Even-strength play accounts for roughly 75-80% of NHL game time.
Even strength refers to any game situation where both teams have an equal number of skaters. The most common configuration is 5-on-5 (five skaters plus a goalie per side), which makes up the vast majority of NHL playing time. Less common even-strength situations include 4-on-4 (after coincidental minors) and 3-on-3 (regular-season overtime).
Even-strength play is the foundation of player evaluation in hockey analytics because it is the most common and stable game state. Special teams situations (power play, penalty kill) involve fundamentally different tactics and personnel, so mixing them with even-strength data can obscure a player's true impact. Most advanced metrics (Corsi, xG, RAPM) are reported at 5v5 by default.
A player's even-strength production is generally considered a better indicator of skill than their raw totals, which can be inflated by power-play time. The best players in the league dominate at even strength, driving shot share, expected goals, and actual goal differentials when the teams are at full strength.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do analysts focus on 5v5 stats?
5v5 accounts for 75-80% of game time and is the most stable, repeatable game state. Power play and penalty kill involve specialized roles and different personnel. Isolating 5v5 gives the clearest picture of a player's all-around ability.
Does 4-on-4 count as even strength?
Yes, 4-on-4 is technically even strength since both teams have the same number of skaters. However, most analytics focus specifically on 5v5 because 4-on-4 is relatively rare and plays very differently (more open ice, more transition chances).
What is a good even-strength point pace?
Elite forwards produce 1.5-2.5 even-strength points per 60 minutes. For defensemen, 0.8-1.5 points per 60 is strong. Even-strength production is more sustainable and predictive than total points, which include power-play contributions.
How does 3-on-3 overtime factor in?
3-on-3 overtime is technically even strength but plays drastically differently from 5v5 -- much more open ice, more breakaways, and higher scoring rates. Most analytics exclude 3v3 overtime from standard 5v5 analysis to avoid contaminating the data.