The NHL kicks off the 2025-26 regular season with an exciting lineup that includes all 32 teams in action on the first Saturday, showcasing a total of 16 games. Fans can expect a thrilling day of hockey starting at 1:30 p.m. ET in Winnipeg and finishing with late matchups at 10 p.m. ET across Edmonton, San Jose, and Seattle.
NHL’s Exciting Saturday Lineup Details
October 14, 2025, marks this anticipated event, which is only the first of two occasions this month when every NHL team will compete. The second is on October 28, featuring the Frozen Frenzy on ESPN, where game times will be staggered from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. ET.
Key Matchups to Watch
Among the many games, several stand out due to their significance and the historical context of the teams involved.
- Los Angeles Kings at Winnipeg Jets (1:30 p.m. ET; TVAS, TSN3, FDSNW)
A matchup featuring two top-six teams from last season, this game is expected to be dynamic. The Kings recently secured a victory over the Vegas Golden Knights, while the Jets signed forward Kyle Connor to an impressive eight-year, $96 million contract. - St. Louis Blues at Calgary Flames (4 p.m. ET; SN, FDSNMW)
Both teams share a fierce rivalry after tying for the second wild card in the Western Conference last season. Their standings were determined by one additional regulation win for the Blues. Expect an intense encounter. - Toronto Maple Leafs at Detroit Red Wings (7 p.m. ET; FDSNDET, SNP, SNW, SNO, CBC)
Auston Matthews, who scored 33 goals last year, is aiming to bounce back after an injury. The Red Wings, celebrating their centennial, introduced three rookies to their lineup, adding intrigue to this classic matchup. - New Jersey Devils at Tampa Bay Lightning (7 p.m. ET; The Spot, MSGSN2)
This match-up is anticipated to highlight speed and creativity from both lineups. Star players like Jack Hughes for the Devils and Nikita Kucherov for the Lightning promise an entertaining spectacle.
Preparing for an Action-Packed Day
Fans are encouraged to prepare for a full day of hockey watching, complete with snacks and drinks. With high stakes and fierce competition, the exciting games will give fans plenty to cheer about, while teams chase their Stanley Cup dreams.
Mark your calendars and settle in for a remarkable Saturday in the NHL, kicking off an exhilarating new season.
