NHL 2026-27 Schedule Released: First 84-Game Season Since 1993-94

The NHL has officially unveiled its 2026-27 regular season schedule, marking the first time since the 1993-94 season that teams will play 84 games each.The expanded 84-game schedule was approved as part of the latest collective bargaining agreement between team owners and players. The goal is to create more breathing room between the end of the Stanley Cup Final, the NHL Draft, and the start of free agency.

2026-27 NHL Season Key Details


Season Start Date: Tuesday, September 29, 2026  

Regular Season End Date: Saturday, April 10, 2027  

Total Games: 1,344 across 32 teams  

Preseason: Most teams limited to just four exhibition games

This will be the earliest start to an NHL season in North American history (excluding the 2007 London games). The Carolina Hurricanes will open the season by raising their 2026 Stanley Cup banner against the Florida Panthers on opening night.


Notable Games to Watch in 2026-27


Oct. 21: Brady Tkachuk faces his former team, the Ottawa Senators, for the first time after being traded to the Florida Panthers.  

Oct. 25: Heritage Classic – Montreal Canadiens vs Winnipeg Jets (outdoor hockey returns to Canada).  

Dec. 21: Stanley Cup Final rematch – Carolina Hurricanes vs Vegas Golden Knights in Las Vegas.  

Dec. 31: 2027 NHL Winter Classic – Utah vs Colorado Avalanche in Salt Lake City.  

Feb. 20: “Jerry World” Hockey – Dallas Stars vs Vegas Golden Knights at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.  

April 4: Washington Capitals vs Pittsburgh Penguins – Potential final regular-season meeting between Alex Ovechkin and Sidney Crosby.

The 2026-27 NHL season promises to be one of the longest and most exciting in league history, with teams playing two extra games compared to the traditional 82-game schedule.


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