NHL Releases 2025–26 Regular Season Schedule: Triple-Header Kicks Off on October 7
The NHL officially released its full 2025–26 regular season schedule on **Wednesday, July 16, 2025** at 1 p.m. ET. The highlight: an action-packed **opening-night triple-header** on **October 7**, featuring three marquee matchups broadcast live across North American networks. Fans are already marking their calendars for what promises to be an electrifying season opener.
Opening Night Matchups: Iconic Teams Take the Ice
The triple-header includes:
1. **5 p.m. ET** – The **Florida Panthers** will raise their second consecutive Stanley Cup banner before facing the **Chicago Blackhawks** at Amerant Bank Arena.
2. **8 p.m. ET** – The **Pittsburgh Penguins** visit the **New York Rangers** at Madison Square Garden, renewing an iconic rivalry and adding intrigue through coach Mike Sullivan’s return.
3. **10:30 p.m. ET** – A West Coast showdown with the **Colorado Avalanche** traveling to play the **Los Angeles Kings** at Crypto.com Arena.
Why This Schedule Release Matters
This marks the final season of the 82-game schedule before the league expands to **84 games starting in 2026–27** as part of the newly ratified collective bargaining agreement. Additionally, the season will include a mid-season Olympic break for **Milano-Cortina 2026**, affecting player availability and team strategy.
More Than Home Openers
Teams across the league began unveiling their **individual home-opener games** following the triple-header announcement. For example, the **Buffalo Sabres** will host the New York Rangers at KeyBank Center on **October 9**, expanding the excitement beyond Opening Night.
Fan Experience & Broadcast Coverage
ESPN will carry the triple-header in the U.S., while **Sportsnet** and **TVA Sports** broadcast the games in Canada. The NHL Network will complement the release with a one-hour special of *NHL Tonight* at 1 p.m. ET, followed by detailed schedule breakdowns later in the evening.
Looking Ahead
With a blend of celebration, rivalry, and broadcast value, the October 7 triple-header sets the tone for a compelling season. Fans can now plan travel and tickets, while teams will map out early strategies. As the first 82-game schedule concludes and an Olympic break loom, every game will count in this pivotal season ahead.
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