Breaking: first glimpse at next NHL season’s start date and game plan

With just a few weeks left in the 2025–26 regular season, the NHL is already setting its sights on next year. Insider Pierre LeBrun reports that, while still subject to change, the 2026–27 season is tentatively scheduled to drop the puck on September 29 and wrap up on April 10.

Teams will see an expanded schedule, playing 84 games apiece under the terms of the league’s new Collective Bargaining Agreement. The full schedule is still being finalized, but this early framework gives fans and players plenty of time to plan for what’s ahead.

The announcement comes as the league looks to balance a longer season while keeping player safety and travel demands in mind. With the regular season winding down, attention is already shifting to how teams will approach training camp and roster decisions for next year’s grind.

Keep an eye out for official confirmation from the NHL, but for now, September 29 is the date to circle on your calendars.