NHL opening Night schedule 2026-27: Opening night games times, TV schedule, streaming

The NHL has officially announced the opening night schedule for the 2026-27 season, which will be the first 84-game campaign since 1993-94.The 2026-27 NHL regular season begins on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, with five exciting games on the docket.

2026-27 NHL Opening Night Schedule (Sept. 29)

Carolina Hurricanes vs Florida Panthers – 5:00 PM ET

Toronto Maple Leafs vs Montreal Canadiens – Original Six matchup

Edmonton Oilers vs Vancouver Canucks – Pacific Division rivalry

New York Rangers vs Boston Bruins – Original Six matchup

Vegas Golden Knights vs Chicago Blackhawks

The Toronto Maple Leafs vs Montreal Canadiens and Edmonton Oilers vs Vancouver Canucks games will be broadcast nationally on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+.This marks the first time in four seasons that the Toronto Maple Leafs will play on opening night. The Carolina Hurricanes, reigning Stanley Cup champions, will open the season against the Florida Panthers, the team they defeated in the 2026 Stanley Cup Final.

Key Dates & Special Events for 2026-27 Season

Heritage Classic: Sunday, October 25 – Winnipeg Jets vs Montreal Canadiens (outdoor game at Princess Auto Stadium)

NHL Global Series: Carolina Hurricanes vs Seattle Kraken – Helsinki, Finland (Nov 12 & 14)

Chicago Blackhawks vs Ottawa Senators – Düsseldorf, Germany (Dec 18 & 20)

NHL Winter Classic: Tuesday, December 31 – Utah Mammoth vs Colorado Avalanche at Rice-Eccles Stadium, Salt Lake City

NHL Stadium Series: Friday, February 20 – Dallas Stars vs Vegas Golden Knights at AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas

NHL All-Star Weekend: February 5-6 at UBS Arena (New York Islanders)

The expanded 84-game season is expected to deliver more hockey throughout the year while providing better spacing between the Stanley Cup Final, the NHL Draft, and free agency.Opening night is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent NHL history with multiple marquee matchups.