The 2025-26 NHL season kicks off on October 7th, with the Florida Panthers raising their latest Stanley Cup banner before facing the Chicago Blackhawks. This game, set for 5 p.m. ET, is the first of a tripleheader, though it notably didn`t make our top anticipation list.
The season promises a variety of compelling storylines, including poignant player homecomings (like Mitch Marner and Brad Marchand), Alex Ovechkin`s early pursuit of his 900th career goal, and two outdoor games hosted in Florida.
While all hockey offers its unique charm, certain games undoubtedly stand out as essential viewing. Here, we present our selection of the top 10 most highly anticipated NHL games for the 2025-26 season.
10. St. Louis Blues at Arizona Mammoth (April 16)
Predicting late-season scenarios in mid-July might seem ambitious, but we anticipate this game on the final day of the regular season could very well determine the last playoff spot in the Western Conference. Both teams are intriguing, and if their postseason fates hinge on this matchup, it promises to be a captivating encounter.
9. New York Islanders at Washington Capitals (October 31)
On Halloween night, there`s a significant chance Alex Ovechkin could become the NHL`s first player to score 900 goals. The fact that he might achieve this historic milestone against the Islanders, just as he pursued Wayne Gretzky`s record against them previously, adds a peculiar and engaging twist to the narrative.
8. Dallas Stars at Winnipeg Jets (October 9)
Jonathan Toews hasn`t seen NHL action since April 13, 2023. That will change on this night when the three-time Stanley Cup champion, at 37 years old, makes his comeback for his hometown Jets. After a two-year battle with illness, his return to the ice in Winnipeg will be closely watched.
7. Montreal Canadiens at Toronto Maple Leafs (October 8)
Just one day after the NHL`s opening night, the Montreal Canadiens have an opportunity to make a strong statement in Toronto. Montreal was one of the league`s most compelling stories last season, and they`ll be eager to prove their success wasn`t a fluke. The Maple Leafs, meanwhile, will be looking to establish a new identity in what feels like a fresh era for the club.
6. Dallas Stars at Colorado Avalanche (October 11)
Only a few days into the new season, the Avalanche will face Mikko Rantanen for the first time since his dominant performance in Game 7 of the first round of the playoffs, which effectively ended their hopes. Every game between these rivals in 2025-26 is a must-watch, but this initial clash, especially in Denver, promises an exciting start.
5. Edmonton Oilers at Florida Panthers (November 22)
Yes, we`ve witnessed this matchup numerous times in the playoffs over the last two seasons, and no, we`re still not tired of it. This championship rematch, played just five days before Thanksgiving, will be a true feast for all hockey enthusiasts. If recent history is any indication, this could very well be a preview of the next Stanley Cup Final.
4. Boston Bruins at Tampa Bay Lightning (February 1)
While not Florida`s first outdoor NHL game, this marks the first to be played in a stadium featuring a pirate ship with a semi-functional cannon – a unique element that significantly enhances its appeal. The Lightning justly deserve to host their inaugural outdoor game, considering their pivotal role in establishing Florida`s recent dominance in hockey.
3. New York Rangers at Florida Panthers (January 2)
This game will be the NHL`s debut outdoor event in Florida. The 2026 NHL Winter Classic is set for LoanDepot Park in Miami, marking the first time the defending Stanley Cup champions will play an outdoor game in their franchise history. While some find the Winter Classic format stale, the novel location and the caliber of the home team are set to provide a refreshing experience. Imagine if they could set up a rink outside the iconic Elbo Room!
2. Florida Panthers at Boston Bruins (October 21)
Following his trade from the Bruins and subsequent Stanley Cup victory with the Panthers, Brad Marchand will make his triumphant return to Boston. As a true Bruins franchise legend, this occasion is expected to generate an incredibly emotional atmosphere at TD Garden, making it one of the most compelling early-season games.
1. Vegas Golden Knights at Toronto Maple Leafs (January 23)
The last time Mitch Marner was on the ice in Toronto, he was met with boos from his own fans as the Maple Leafs were eliminated from the playoffs. Now, as a member of the Golden Knights, his reception at Scotiabank Arena will be intensely scrutinized. Regardless of how the crowd reacts, Marner will have a prime opportunity to demonstrate to the Maple Leafs what they let slip away.
