What is ice hockey power play?

Answer 1

A powerplay is often awarded when a penalty is given to the opposing team. When a player makes an illegal play, such as hooking or cross-checking, he is given a penalty. The offending player is then sent to the penalty box, usually two minutes for a minor penalty and five minutes for a major penalty. The team of the offending player is then shorthanded-they are only allowed to have four players (minus the goalie) on the ice. The time that the offending player spends in the penalty box is a powerplay for the other team.