NHL guides

Plain-English explanations of the rules behind the tools. Last updated October 23, 2026.

NHL lineup rules: how many players, lines and pairings

An NHL team dresses 20 players: 18 skaters and two goalies. Here is how they split into four forward lines, three defence pairings and special teams.
How salary retention works in an NHL trade

Salary retention lets a trading club keep part of a player’s cap hit. A club can retain up to 50%, and the retained money stays on its own cap.
How the NHL trade deadline works

The NHL trade deadline falls in early March at 3 p.m. ET. After it passes, clubs cannot trade again until their season ends.
How to build an NHL lineup, step by step

Start with the goaltenders and the top pair, then balance roles, handedness and special teams. A practical method for building a four-line NHL lineup.