The NHL has released its full schedule for the 2025-26 season, and while some questions remain unanswered, most major offseason moves have been addressed. The league’s calendar features an Olympic break in February and a unique schedule that starts on October 7.
Notable dates include Oct. 11 and Oct. 28, when all 32 teams play on the same day, creating stacked slates. On Nov. 8, defenseman Matthew Schaefer will play his first game at Madison Square Garden, giving fans a glimpse into what the Islanders-Rangers rivalry is like.
The league also features several international games, including two matchups in Sweden with the Predators and Penguins playing on November 14 and 16. The Panthers and Oilers will face each other again on Nov. 22, setting up another Stanley Cup rematch.
Other notable dates include Jan. 2 and Feb. 1, when both of this season’s outdoor games take place in Florida, featuring the Winter Classic and Stadium Series. Hockey Day in Canada also returns with seven Canadian teams playing throughout the afternoon and evening.
The return of captain Jonathan Toews to Chicago is highlighted on January 19, while an appearance by Mitch Marner in Golden Knights-Maple Leafs on January 23 will likely draw boos from Toronto fans.
The NHL’s schedule clears up for a four-week period starting February 6, allowing teams to focus on the 2026 Winter Olympic Games. The final few weeks of the season see several key matchups, including Penguins-Capitals on April 12 and Sharks-Blackhawks on the second-to-last day of the regular season.
Overall, the NHL’s 2025-26 schedule offers a mix of intriguing matchups and notable dates that fans can look forward to throughout the season.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6497981/2025/07/16/nhl-schedule-release-season-games-matchups