In theory, at least, if a win isn't determined in these successive periods, then hockey games can theoretically go on forever. In reality, the vast majority of games never even run for more than a 3-4 hour window. In 1936, the Detroit Red Wings and the Montreal Maroons skated for 196 minutes and 30 seconds to stage the longest game in NHL history, turning to six overtimes before Fielding • Veldman's goal led Detroit to the victory. Games of this sort are unusual, but they do occasionally happen when the teams are evenly matched, so it's hard for one to gain a decisive advantage. Do you want to know the Average Hockey Game Length? Just follow the link.