NHL 2026-27 season begins with expanded schedule

The 109th NHL season has commenced, featuring an expanded 84-game schedule following a new collective bargaining agreement. The season began on September 29, 2026, with the reigning Stanley Cup champion Carolina Hurricanes facing the Florida Panthers.

Early season performance shows the San Jose Sharks finding success through young talent, led by Macklin Celebrini, despite a recent shutout loss to the Dallas Stars. Meanwhile, the Seattle Kraken have secured an early playoff position following dominant wins against the Calgary Flames, though they recently suffered a loss to the Edmonton Oilers.