What's Happening?
The NHL has announced its 2025-26 preseason schedule, featuring a 15-day, 104-game slate. The preseason will begin on September 20 and conclude on October 4, with all 32 NHL teams hosting at least one game. Additionally, several neutral-site games will be held in locations such as Abbotsford, British Columbia; Bakersfield, California; and Quebec City, Quebec. This schedule marks the last season with this many preseason games, as the regular season will expand to 84 games starting in 2026-27.
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Why It's Important?
The preseason schedule is a critical period for teams to evaluate their rosters and make necessary adjustments before the regular season. The inclusion of neutral-site games provides an opportunity to engage fans in different regions and expand the league's reach. The upcoming changes to the preseason format, with fewer games, will impact how teams prepare for the regular season, potentially altering strategies and player development approaches.
