Must-watch games on the 2025–26 NHL schedule: Every major rivalry, revenge game, and global event

Circle your calendars, hockey fans, the NHL is coming in hot this season. The league just dropped the full 2025–26 schedule and it’s packed with drama, revenge games, international flair, and outdoor ice battles in the unlikeliest places (hello, Miami).

From Marner’s Toronto return to Olympic breaks and beer league beefs, the upcoming season is set to deliver fireworks from puck drop to playoffs.

Here’s what to know about the 2025–26 NHL schedule: Opening night, Olympics pause, and emotional returns

Mark October 7 as the official kickoff. The Panthers will raise their Stanley Cup banner at home while facing Connor Bedard and the Blackhawks, talk about a statement opener.

But that’s just one-third of the tripleheader. Elsewhere, it’s Rangers vs. Penguins (Sid vs. Shesterkin), and Avalanche vs. Kings in a heavyweight West Coast clash. ESPN and Sportsnet will be airing it all, so nobody’s missing out.

Panthers vs. Oilers Stanley Cup rematch headlines two fire-loaded dates

Get ready for bad blood: Florida and Edmonton will renew their Cup Final feud twice, first on November 22 and again on March 19.These rematches won’t just be about revenge. They could also be playoff previews if both teams keep their rosters loaded and legs fresh.

Mitch Marner’s Toronto return as a Golden Knight will be emotional chaos

Circle January 23 in gold and blue. Mitch Marner will return to Toronto in a Vegas Golden Knights jersey and Scotiabank Arena is guaranteed to be split between cheers and betrayal.

Fans have already dubbed this the “Marner Bowl,” and depending on how the Leafs’ season is going, it could get spicy.

The NHL is going global (and tropical): Sweden games, Miami Winter Classic, and Tampa’s Stadium Series

November 14 and 16 will see Pittsburgh and Nashville face off in Stockholm, Sweden as part of the NHL’s Global Series. It’s another step in the league’s push to tap into European fandom.But that’s not even the wildest venue this year. On January 2, the Panthers will host the Rangers outdoors at Miami’s LoanDepot Park for the Winter Classic — yes, in Florida.Then, on February 1, it’s Bruins vs. Lightning at Raymond James Stadium for the Stadium Series. Imagine palm trees, fireworks, and slapshots under the stars.

Olympics break confirmed: NHL stars heading to Milan in February

The NHL will pause from February 6 to 24 for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan–Cortina. It’s the league’s first full Olympic return since 2014, and fans can’t wait to see players like McDavid, Bedard, and Makar rock national jerseys.Emotional homecomings, revenge games, and chaos await this year

This NHL season is built for drama, legacy, and global flair

The 2025–26 NHL season feels like it was crafted in a drama lab. From emotional returns to international matchups, outdoor games in tropical cities, and Olympic glory, it has everything hockey fans love.Whether you’re into gritty rivalries, underdog stories, or just here for the memes, this schedule guarantees something spicy every week.Also read - Heartwarming: Sidney Crosby made one quiet phone call and saved his former equipment manager’s career