NHL Unveils Expanded 84-Game Schedule for 2026-27 Season

The National Hockey League announced its 2026-27 regular-season schedule, expanding to 84 games per team for the first time since the 1993-94 season. The season is set to begin on September 29, marking the earliest start date in league history for a North American regular season. This expansion aims to provide more time between the Stanley Cup Final, the NHL Draft, and the start of free agency. The Carolina Hurricanes are scheduled to raise their second championship banner on opening night against the Florida Panthers.