The NHL, or National Hockey League, is a professional ice hockey league in North America. It consists of 32 teams, divided into two conferences: the Eastern Conference and the Western Conference. Each conference is further split into two divisions, allowing for a structured schedule and playoff format. Each NHL team represents a city or region and has its own unique colors, logo, and fan base. Teams compete in an 82-game regular season, followed by the playoffs, where the top teams vie for the coveted Stanley Cup. The league features a mix of Canadian and American teams, showcasing the sport's popularity across both countries.