Why Is the NHL Playing 84 Games? What Changes in 2026–27

The NHL’s regular season expands from 82 to 84 games per team in 2026–27. The change comes through the league’s agreement with the NHL Players’ Association and adds two games that count toward the standings.

The main scheduling benefit is a more balanced set of divisional matchups. The trade-off is a shorter preseason and less preparation time before meaningful games begin.

Why Did the NHL Add Two Games?

The Associated Press reported that the expanded schedule was part of the new labor agreement and was designed to balance divisional play. The league and union subsequently ratified the deal, as Reuters reported in July 2025.

An 84-game format allows every team to face each of its seven division rivals four times. That removes the uneven three-game divisional series that complicated comparisons under the 82-game format.

What Changes at a Glance?

The dates and total appear in the NHL’s schedule announcement.

What Happens to the Preseason?

The longer regular season comes with a condensed exhibition schedule. NHL.com’s training-camp report explains that the move to four preseason games leaves teams with roughly a week less preparation time.

That puts more weight on practices and fewer exhibition opportunities. For a rookie trying to earn a job or a coach installing a new system, each preseason appearance becomes more valuable.

What Does It Mean for Fans?

There are two more meaningful games on each team’s calendar. Across 32 clubs, that produces 32 additional league-wide games: each matchup appears on the schedules of two teams.

It also makes comparing raw season totals worth a little extra care. A player now has two more potential appearances, so points per game can help put a new scoring total alongside an older 82-game season.

For the first night’s matchups and broadcast information, visit our NHL Opening Night 2026 schedule and viewing guide.

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