Each NHL team's season-opening game is staggered across the first handful of days of the campaign, and Thursday includes the first regular-season action for 10 clubs. Whether it's an exciting young rookie, a familiar face in a new place or an iconic new goaltender mask, there's something for all fans in these contests. Thursday night is also an occasion where it pays to have multiple devices and an ESPN+ subscription, with eight games on the slate.
The Sabres ended the NHL's longest postseason drought last season -- and won a round when they got there. The Blue Jackets have not played any playoff hockey in six seasons. Reigning Norris Trophy winner Zach Werenski and Norris finalist Rasmus Dahlin will be playing heavy minutes in this one.
Following Tuesday's Battle of Pennsylvania showdown against the Penguins (a 7-0 loss), the Flyers take on their I-95 rivals in North Jersey. After a 3-0 loss to the Bruins in their season opener, the Rangers will look to get on track in their home opener at Madison Square Garden. The Lightning's last trip to MSG (Nov. 29, 2025) resulted in a 4-1 win.
Back in the 2026 Olympics, Sweden and Finland squared off in the latest best-on-best duel between international hockey powers. Finland took that round 4-1, backstopped by Juuse Saros, who is the likely starter for the Preds in their season opener. Expectations are on the lower side for both the Kraken and Flames, but given the state of the Pacific Division there could be room for one of them to surprise.
Source: ESPN NHL · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing