A double minor in hockey is a penalty that lasts 4 minutes total —it’s basically two 2-minute minor penalties back to back.

How it works

  • The player goes to the penalty box for 4 minutes.
  • If the opposing team scores during the first 2 minutes, only the first minor ends and the second one begins.
  • If they score again during the second 2 minutes, the player can still remain in the box until the full penalty is served.

Common reasons

A double minor is often called for a more serious version of a minor infraction, especially high-sticking that draws blood.

Quick example

If a player gets a double minor for high-sticking, their team is shorthanded for 4 minutes unless the other team scores, which can shorten it in 2-minute chunks.

If you want, I can also explain the difference between a minor, double minor, major, and misconduct in one simple table.