Monday, 23. March 2026 |
EHC Red Bull München: The differences between playoffs and DEL regular season
Playoffs – an extraordinary time for hockey fans and pros alike. Everyday life takes a back seat; everything revolves around games played every other day. For our boys, this phase means being even faster, shooting even harder, taking on every battle, and cranking the intensity up to the max. And for our fans, that means getting used to a few changes.
“Shake Hands” Only at the End
During the regular season, the “shake hands” between both teams after the end of every game is mandatory—regardless of how heated things got on the ice beforehand. In the playoffs, this gesture is initially omitted and only takes place after a series is concluded. Then both teams, including coaches and staff, come together to show mutual respect.
This special tradition in our wonderful sport symbolizes that, despite all the toughness and intensity, the opponent’s effort and dedication are honored. After all, at the end of the day, it is and remains “just” a game.
The celebrations will come later
If we kick off the first quarterfinal against ERC Ingolstadt on March 24 with a win, don’t be surprised if our guys don’t break into a “Humba” in front of the fan section right after the game. And our goalies won’t be dancing either. The Red Bulls will likely head straight to the locker room after a quick greeting. After all, preparations for the next match two days later will begin right then.
In the playoffs, celebrating together with the fans doesn’t happen until the end of a series—in the best-case scenario, that is, once we’ve secured a spot in the semifinals. The fans, however, aren’t prohibited from celebrating. If you want to be there live at SAP Garden, you still have a chance. Although Game 3 of the quarterfinal series next Sunday (7:00 p.m.) is already sold out, tickets are still available for Tuesday’s game (7:00 p.m.). So: Get your tickets now and be there as we kick off the hottest phase of the season.
“Sudden Death” Decides
If the score is tied after 60 minutes, there will no longer be a five-minute overtime period followed by a shootout in the playoffs. Instead, the ice is resurfaced, and play continues five-on-five. The game continues in additional “periods” of 20 minutes each until one team scores and wins. For you, that means: Be sure to bring plenty of time with you to our games. Because they could turn into all-nighters.
Incidentally, the longest DEL game in history to date was the third quarterfinal matchup on March 22, 2008, between the Kölner Haie and the Adler Mannheim. Former Munich player Philip Gogulla scored the game-winning goal for the Kölner Haie in the sixth overtime period, 168 minutes and 16 seconds into the game, shortly after midnight.
Fun fact: Due to the game’s enormous length, the players were supplied with pizza and energy bars from nearby gas stations during the breaks to replenish their energy reserves. As you can see, that’s part of what makes the playoffs so special.
Highlights: EHC Red Bull München vs. ERC Ingolstadt (25.02.2026)
// DEL - HIGHLIGHTS
Supervision by a Series Manager
In addition, each playoff series is supervised by a series manager—usually a former player who acts as a neutral liaison between the officiating staff and the two participating teams, both on and off the ice.
He is present at every game and maintains close communication with the league so that he can provide quick solutions in the event of any disagreements. Together with a referee coach, he analyzes game footage on screen.
To maintain neutrality, the series manager communicates exclusively with the sports directors and not with the head coaches.
Shave, and you’re out!
The playoffs are also the phase of the season when children barely recognize their fathers and wives find their husbands unusually rough. That’s because many pros are so superstitious that they stop shaving entirely during this time. The playoff beard in ice hockey isn’t just a symbol of strength, team spirit, and endurance—it’s practically a law. We’re guessing that Ryan Murphy would be way out in front in the “best playoff beard” category on our team.
The rule officially traces back to two former New York Islanders NHL players, Stefan Persson and Anders Kallur, who introduced beards to the world’s top league in April 1980. It was a success: the Islanders went on to win four consecutive Stanley Cups.
However, Derek Sanderson is considered the pioneer of facial hair in hockey; as a forward for the Boston Bruins, he wore a beard in the playoffs as early as the 1970s.
Only flying is better
To make the most of the short breaks between games, many teams travel by plane during the playoffs—when possible and practical given the distance. This saves a lot of time, reduces travel stress, and allows for better recovery. Sleeping in your own bed is usually more restful than on a bus or in a hotel, and you can recharge your batteries faster in familiar surroundings. Especially in long series, this can be a decisive advantage.
It’s no wonder that the motto in the playoffs is: “Eat, Sleep, Hockey, Repeat!”
Game 3 of the quarterfinals is sold out – secure your remaining tickets for Tuesday’s playoff derby now// TICKETS
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