As a subject matter expert on ice hockey, I can tell you that the number of hockey pucks used in a game can vary depending on several factors. The National Hockey League (NHL) is the premier professional ice hockey league in North America, and it has specific protocols regarding the use of pucks during games.

Firstly, it's important to note that the pucks must be frozen to ensure they have the right consistency and are easier to control for the players. This is a crucial aspect because frozen pucks glide more smoothly on the ice, which affects the game's dynamics significantly.

Now, regarding the actual number of pucks used, it's not a fixed number. However, it's reported that an **average of 12 pucks are used per NHL game**. This number can fluctuate based on the game's intensity and the frequency of stoppages. For instance, if a game has more stoppages due to penalties, goals, or other reasons that require the replacement of the puck, the number could increase.

Additionally, it's worth mentioning that there have been instances where up to **22 pucks have been recorded as being used in a single game**. This could be due to a variety of reasons, such as a particularly fast-paced game with frequent changes in possession or a game with a high number of penalties leading to more stoppages.

Officials are responsible for replacing the pucks during the game. They monitor the condition of the pucks and replace them as needed to ensure fair play and maintain the quality of the game. The process of replacing pucks is seamless and usually goes unnoticed by the audience, but it's an integral part of the game's operation.

In summary, while the average number of hockey pucks used in an NHL game is around a dozen, this number is not set in stone and can vary from game to game. The key takeaway is that the officials are vigilant in ensuring that the pucks are in optimal condition throughout the game, contributing to the overall quality and fairness of the competition.

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THE AVERAGE NHL GAME USES A DOZEN PUCKS. Players are required to use frozen pucks which are easier to control than unaltered pucks, but these tend to thaw quickly. Thus, they're constantly replaced by officials and an average of 12 come into play per game, though as many as 22 have been recorded.read more >>