What's Happening?
The National Hockey League (NHL) has announced its 2025-26 preseason schedule, featuring a 15-day event with 104 games across various venues. The preseason will run from September 20 to October 4, with games hosted in 40 NHL arenas and several neutral locations, including Abbotsford, Bakersfield, Boise, and Quebec City. This extensive schedule aims to engage fans and explore new markets, offering each NHL team the opportunity to host at least one preseason game. The regular season is set to begin shortly after, on October 7, with a tripleheader.
Why It's Important?
The NHL's decision to expand its preseason schedule reflects a strategic move to increase fan engagement and explore new markets. By hosting games in neutral venues, the league aims to attract a broader audience and enhance its presence in regions less familiar with professional hockey. This initiative could lead to increased revenue and fan base expansion, benefiting the league and its teams. The preseason also provides teams with the opportunity to assess player performance and make necessary adjustments before the regular season begins.
