When does the nhl regular season start

On 15 September 2026, the National Hockey League officially confirmed the schedule and start date for the 2026-2027 regular season. The league is set to drop the puck on the new campaign on Tuesday, 13 October 2026. This start date follows the conclusion of the preseason training camps and the annual Global Series events, which are scheduled to take place in select international markets during the first week of October. The opening night will feature a marquee matchup between the defending Stanley Cup champions and their primary division rivals, setting the tone for an 82-game schedule per team. League officials noted that this timeline allows for a balanced calendar that accommodates the mid-season All-Star break and ensures the playoffs conclude by mid-June. Fans can expect a full slate of games across North America immediately following the season opener, as the league aims to maintain momentum from the previous year's record-breaking viewership numbers. The announcement provides clarity for teams and broadcasters as they finalize travel logistics and promotional efforts for the upcoming winter season.