Today, ESPN announced its 2026-27 National Hockey League (NHL) regular season schedule, featuring 100 exclusive games, beginning September 29 through the end of the regular season in early April.
Here’s a deeper look at five elements of the upcoming season.
1. An 84-Game Era Begins
The NHL’s first 84-game season in more than three decades gets underway September 29 with an ESPN Opening Night tripleheader. This the second time in history the season has begun in September (2007-08).
2. Frozen Frenzy Returns
For the fourth consecutive year, all 32 NHL teams will take the ice October 13 as Frozen Frenzy delivers a full night of staggered games, whip-around coverage and nonstop action. Action will begin with a tripleheader on ESPN, plus the additional 13 games available on ESPN2 and ESPN+.
3. ABC Hockey Saturday Rings in the New Year
ABC Hockey Saturday returns in 2027, launching a schedule of 16 Saturday afternoon showcases throughout the second half of the season.
4. Marquee Events Take Center Stage
The NHL All-Star Weekend and NHL Stadium Series headline a packed February. This year’s All-Star Game has an international twist with five teams (Canada, Finland, Sweden, United States and World team) competing in a 3-on-3 round-robin tournament. ESPN’s sixth consecutive Stadium Series outdoor matchup (Dallas Stars-Vegas Golden Knights) takes center stage at the home of the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium.
5. The Road to the Stanley Cup Begins in Early April
Regular season coverage culminates with the 2027 Stanley Cup Playoffs, featuring the First Round, Second Round and a Conference Final on ESPN platforms.