2026 NHL Preseason Schedule Structure

The NHL preseason is the opening phase of the hockey calendar and gives fans their first look at teams before the games start counting. Usually held during the final two weeks of September, each team plays around six to eight exhibition matchups as coaches evaluate roster battles, line combinations, prospects, and offseason additions. Veterans use the preseason to get back into game shape, while younger players and newcomers fight for final roster spots.

Preseason games do not count in the standings, but they often provide key insight into how teams may perform once the regular season begins. Some clubs also play split-squad games, where different parts of the roster compete in separate games on the same day. Neutral-site exhibition contests are occasionally scheduled as the NHL continues to grow the sport in new markets and international locations.

Following the preseason, the NHL regular season begins in early October and runs through April, with each team playing 82 games. The top three teams in each division plus two wild-card teams from each conference qualify for the Stanley Cup Playoffs, where 16 teams battle for hockey’s ultimate prize.

For NHL fans, the preseason is the first chance to preview contenders, breakout candidates, rookie debuts, and potential surprises ahead of the 2026 season.

Note: Data from Wikipedia