A power play occurs when one team has more players on the ice than the other due to a penalty. When a player commits a penalty, they are sent to the penalty box for a set amount of time, usually two minutes for a minor penalty. During that time, their team must play shorthanded, giving the opposing team a numerical advantage.

The team with the extra skater is said to be on the power play. Their goal is to use puck movement, spacing, and patience to create high‑quality scoring chances. Power plays often involve set formations, quick passes, and shots designed to force the goalie out of position. If the power‑play team scores during a minor penalty, the penalty ends immediately and both teams return to full strength.

The shorthanded team is on the penalty kill. Their objective is to prevent goals by blocking shots, disrupting passing lanes, and clearing the puck out of their defensive zone. Penalty killing requires discipline, positioning, and teamwork, as players must cover more ice with fewer skaters. A successful penalty kill can shift momentum and energize both the team and the crowd.