The National Hockey League (NHL) announced today the 2025-26 regular season will open on Tuesday, Oct. 7 with a tripleheader broadcast exclusively on ESPN in the U.S., and on Sportsnet and TVA Sports in Canada.

The NHL's 2026 season schedule is facing backlash from hockey fans, particularly regarding the Florida Panthers' opening game. The early 5 PM ET start time against the Chicago Blackhawks, instead of a prime-time slot,

The NHL released it's opening night slate for the 2025-26 season  — featuring the three biggest American markets, the defending Stanley Cup champions and several of the sports biggest superstars and rising stars.

NEW YORK -- The National Hockey League (NHL) announced today the 2025-26 regular season will open on Tuesday, Oct. 7 with an opening night tripleheader broadcast exclusively on ESPN in the U.S., and on Sportsnet and TVA Sports in Canada.

The Florida Panthers, two-time defending Stanley Cup champions, are being slighted by ESPN, by not giving them the prime-time slot on opening night.

The Florida Panthers are set to raise their second consecutive Stanley Cup banner before beginning the NHL season against the Chicago Blackhawks.

While most of you are enjoying your summer off, hopefully in the sand by the water, the NHL world continues to turn. Although it feels the news might be trickling in, it is news nonetheless.

The Philadelphia Flyers made some changes to their roster this offseason, and their lineup on opening night will look a little different from it did last season. There are plenty of NHL contracts on the Flyers,