Could the Florida Panthers pull off a three-peat?
Will Connor McDavid finally win with Edmonton?
Here’s everything you need to know about the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs.
When the Florida Panthers defeated the Edmonton Oilers in June, they captured their second consecutive Stanley Cup. Following the win, analysts and fans immediately began talking about the possibility of a dynasty in Florida. But will they survive against the hungry challengers? Here’s what to know about the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs.
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NHL 2025–2026 regular season schedule
The regular season leading up to the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs is scheduled from October 7 to April 16, with a total of 1,312 games.
Two games will be played in Sweden on November 14 and 16, featuring the Nashville Predators and the Pittsburgh Penguins.
The season will include two nights when all NHL teams are in action: October 11 and October 28.
There will be a 19-day Olympic break from February 6 to February 24.
The No. 1 draft pick, Matthew Schaefer, could make his NHL debut on October 9, when the New York Islanders face the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Outdoor games NHL 2025-2026
January 2: The NHL Winter Classic will be held at loanDepot Park in Miami, with the Florida Panthers hosting the New York Rangers.
February 1: The Tampa Bay Lightning will host the Boston Bruins at Raymond James Stadium as part of the 2026 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series.
When do the 2026 Stanley Cup playoffs start?
The 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs are expected to begin on April 18, although the NHL has not officially confirmed this date. Updates will be provided as soon as the league makes an announcement.
Where can I watch NHL?
The NHL’s national broadcast partners for the 2025–26 season are:
The Walt Disney Company (ESPN/ABC)
TNT Sports (TNT/HBO Max)
Sportsnet
Prime Video
TVA Sports
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