National Hockey League (NHL) 2025–26 Season

October 7, 2025 - June 7, 2026

The 2025–26 NHL season is the 109th season of play for the National Hockey League, featuring all 32 professional teams competing in an 82‑game regular season schedule beginning on 7 October 2025. The season includes a mid‑season break for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan‑Cortina, where NHL players are eligible to participate. After the regular season concludes in mid‑April 2026, the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs begin in April 2026, featuring 16 qualifying teams competing in best‑of‑seven series. The season culminates with the Stanley Cup Final in June 2026, when the two conference champions battle for hockey’s most coveted trophy. The league continues its global reach with regular‑season games played internationally and marquee outdoor events.