How wide is an NHL regulation goal net in feet?

An NHL regulation goal net is 6 feet wide, measured from the inside of one goalpost to the inside of the other. The opening is also 4 feet high, while the goal’s footprint extends 40 inches deep.

The red goal frame consists of two vertical posts joined by a horizontal crossbar. A net is attached behind it to catch the puck and prevent it from passing through. For a goal to count, the puck must completely cross the goal line between the posts and beneath the crossbar, subject to rules governing deflections, kicking, high sticks and goaltender interference.

The six-foot width is sometimes confused with the width of the goal crease, which is larger. The crease is the painted area in front of the net that helps define the goaltender’s protected space; it is not the opening of the net itself. NHL goals are also mounted with flexible pegs, allowing the frame to come loose when struck and reducing injury risk.