NHL blasted for “disrespecting” Florida Panthers with early puck drop and weak opponent on 2026 Opening Night

The newly announced 2026 NHL season schedule has angered hockey fans, primarily over the Florida Panthers' opening game. Many are frustrated by the champions' early start time and their matchup against the Chicago Blackhawks, feeling it reduces the two-time Stanley Cup winners.

Concerns also abide regarding broadcast accessibility for games.

Outrage erupts as NHL prioritizes Blackhawks over champs for prime-time spotlight

Significant frustration has ignited among the devoted hockey fans due to the initial release of the NHL’s 2026 season schedule. Much of the ire centers on the opening night plans, especially concerning the reigning champions, the Florida Panthers.Forward Matthew Tkachuk previously articulated his ambitions, phrasing, “Hopefully another best year ever,” and adding, “I don’t know.

I think I want to get used to this, this whole winning thing. So, I guess it starts with coming out at the start of the year again.” Yet, the league’s choices for their October 7th opener have caused prevalent discontent.

Fans slam early puck drop and weak opponent choice

The decision to schedule the Panthers' banner-raising event and their game against the Chicago Blackhawks in an early 5 PM ET slot, rather than a prime-time slot, has drawn tremendous criticism. One upset fan @RyanWinsBets commented, “How is the FLA vs CHI game not the prime time game? Would love to hear the reasoning.”

Another @McCant4Life echoed the sentiment, querying, “Do we have to three-peat to get some respect around here or what? TF is that puck drop time?” Beyond the timing, the opponent choice is also a flashpoint. Many craved a more exciting contest, with one fan @TakenKhariaYa conveying, “Who wants to see these games? Should be Florida vs Oilers on opening night, that would be something.”

Broadcast accessibility concerns continue to haunt NHL fans

Adding to these resentments are persistent worries about broadcast access, highlighted by a fan’s concerned query: “Stanley Cup champs get a 5 p.m. start time, and I’m guessing the NHL will make it hard to watch unless you have the right subscription?” This echoes prior criticisms regarding the league’s complicated subscription landscape, with the Winged Wheel Podcast’s Ryan Hana mourning, “Best sport in the world and nobody can watch.”Also Read: Stanley Cup shame sparks Oilers' panic move—goalie coach out as franchise refuses to face roster truthAs the complete season schedule approaches, these early choices and fan responses underscore the ongoing challenge of balancing league decisions with the ardent hopes of its loyal supporters.