NHL 2026-27 schedule will start Sept. 29 with 5 games: Here are details

The NHL will begin its 2026-27 regular season on September 29 with five games scheduled on opening night, marking a notable shift in the league's calendar. The upcoming season will feature an expanded 84-game schedule, up from the traditional 82 games, representing two major changes to the league's format. The details were reported by Mike Brehm of USA TODAY on July 15, 2026.