What's Happening?
The National Hockey League has released its 2025-26 preseason schedule, which includes 104 games over a 15-day period. The schedule features games played across 40 venues, including neutral sites in various locations such as Abbotsford, Bakersfield, Boise, Hershey, Ontario, Orlando, and Quebec City. All 32 NHL teams will host at least one preseason game, with the schedule commencing on September 20 and concluding on October 4. The regular season is set to begin on October 7 with a tripleheader broadcast on ESPN in the U.S. and Sportsnet and TVA Sports in Canada.
Why It's Important?
The preseason schedule is crucial for teams to evaluate their rosters and make final adjustments before the regular season. It provides an opportunity for players to showcase their skills and for coaches to test strategies. The inclusion of neutral-site games helps expand the NHL's reach and engage fans in different regions. The schedule also sets the stage for the regular season, which is anticipated to draw significant viewership and fan engagement.
What's Next?
Teams will focus on preparing their players and finalizing their rosters during the preseason. Fans can expect competitive matchups as teams aim to build momentum heading into the regular season. The NHL will continue to promote the upcoming games and engage with fans through various media channels.