What is the objective of the “shootout”?

The objective of the shootout in hockey is to determine a winner when a game remains tied after overtime. This scenario typically arises in regular-season games where both teams have exhausted regulation and overtime periods without a victor. The shootout is a method used to add excitement and resolve the tie, allowing each team to take turns attempting to score on the opposing goaltender. Each team selects a set number of players to take penalty shots, and the team with the most goals after these attempts wins the game. This distinct format emphasizes both scoring ability and goaltending prowess, making it a thrilling conclusion to closely contested matches.

The other options revolve around different aspects of hockey but do not capture the specific purpose of the shootout in the context of resolving tied games. While determining the best player and testing goalie skills are elements that may occur within the scope of a shootout, they are not its primary objective. Scoring the most goals in a given time also does not accurately describe the nature of the shootout, as it focuses on individual attempts rather than a timed event.