NHL Sets 84-Game Schedule for 2026-27 Season

The NHL released its 2026-27 regular-season schedule on Thursday, expanding each team's slate to 84 games from the 82-game format used since 1995-96. ESPN reported that the change stems from the league's new collective bargaining agreement with players, which begins its four-year term on September 16. The season previously featured 84 games from 1992 to 1994.

The Carolina Hurricanes will raise their Stanley Cup championship banner before facing the Florida Panthers on September 29 at 5 p.m. ET on ESPN. The New York Rangers visit the Boston Bruins at 8 p.m.

ET that night, and the Chicago Blackhawks travel to face the Vegas Golden Knights at 10:30 p.m. ET. Opening night moves to the end of September for the first time. Each team will play two home and two road games against its seven division rivals.

Teams will face four conference opponents with two home games and one road game, and the other four conference opponents with one home game and two road games. Every team will also play each opponent from the opposite conference once at home and once on the road, resulting in 42 home games and 42 away games.

Nearly two dozen Monday afternoon games will double as primetime contests in European markets.

The NHL stated that these games further the league's commitment to deepening its connection with international fans and growth in European markets. The Winnipeg Jets host the Montreal Canadiens in the Heritage Classic on October 25 at Princess Auto Stadium.