How often do fights happen in hockey

Ever wonder how often do fights happen in hockey? You might think the NHL is all about dropping gloves every game, but the reality is pretty different. Fights still happen, yet they're way less common than they were decades ago. Let's break down what the numbers actually show and what it means for the sport you love.

How many fights happen in the NHL each season

The 2024-25 season brought around 100+ fights across the entire league. That sounds like a lot until you realize it averages to less than one fight per game league-wide. The distribution is wild though the Nashville Predators led with 37 fights, while the Dallas Stars barely fought at all with just 2-3 total. The Boston Bruins landed 30 fights, and Columbus Blue Jackets had 28. Some teams embrace physicality far more than others.

Which teams fight the most in hockey

Nashville, Boston, and Columbus dominate the fighting stats. Mathieu Olivier from Columbus went 15-0 in fights, making him the league's top fighter. These teams play a physical, hard-nosed style that naturally leads to more scraps. Teams with fewer fights tend to focus more on skill and speed (which also works, honestly). Physical playing style drives fighting frequency, and each franchise chooses its identity differently.

Why do hockey fights happen and what's the penalty

Players drop gloves for several reasons. Fights protect teammates from dirty play, shift momentum during tight games, and pump up the crowd. The NHL hands out five-minute major penalties for fighting. Rarely does a player get thrown out just for fighting alone. Retaliation after hits and rivalry games spark most conflicts. The sport's physical nature makes some conflict inevitable.

What fans should know about hockey fighting today

Understanding fight statistics tells you about a team's playing style and toughness. The NHL has shifted toward stricter safety rules in recent years. Fewer fights happen now compared to the 1980s and 1990s. That doesn't mean fighting dissapeared it just became less central to every game. Appreciate hockey's physical intensity while recognizing the league's commitment to player safety. Fighting remains part of the game's identity, even as it evolves.