Ice Hockey Match or Game: Which Term Should You Use?
“Game” is the default in NHL and IIHF terminology, but “match” is valid British usage. Learn which wording to use in conversation and statistics.
Use “ice hockey game” as your default, especially when discussing the NHL. “Ice hockey match” is also valid English and appears in British hockey usage. The difference is wording, not a different type of contest or set of rules.
Why “game” is the default
The NHL’s official glossary uses “Game Played” and “Game-Winning Goal.” The International Ice Hockey Federation also defines the contest under “Game” in its Olympic hockey terminology. That makes “game” a good choice for NHL coverage, statistical analysis and general hockey writing. (NHL glossary, IIHF terminology)
For example:
- “We’re going to an ice hockey game tonight.”
- “The goalie made 35 saves in the game.”
- “The series went to Game 7.”
Once the sport is clear, you can simply say “hockey game.”
Is “ice hockey match” wrong?
No. Cambridge labels the sporting sense of “match” as mainly UK usage, with US English usually using “game.” That is a general language distinction, not a rule requiring British hockey writers to use “match.” (Cambridge Dictionary)
British ice hockey uses both. England Ice Hockey’s GameDay guidance refers to “match days,” “match results” and a “pre-match screen,” while also using “pre-game team list” and “in-game function.” (England Ice Hockey)
| What you are writing | Recommended wording |
|---|---|
| General ice hockey conversation | “Hockey game” is a reliable default |
| NHL report or statistical explanation | Use “game” and the source’s official labels |
| British club fixture or match report | Either works; follow the club’s wording |
For statistics, keep “games played” precise
When explaining NHL statistics, retain the official label games played, commonly abbreviated GP, rather than renaming it “matches played.” The NHL credits a player with a game played if he steps onto the ice during playing time or serves a penalty. It does not mean he played every minute of the contest. (NHL glossary)
That distinction matters when comparing performance: games played counts appearances, while time on ice measures playing minutes. For more statistical labels, see our guide to hockey stats abbreviations.