The 2024-25 NHL Hockey season marks another thrilling chapter in the world of ice hockey, featuring 32 teams from across the U.S. and Canada. With excitement ramping up for this year's competition, fans are eager to catch all the action, both live and online.

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NHL Full Schedule and How to Watch
NHL Full Schedule and How to Watch

Latest Full Schedule for the 2024-25 NHL Regular Season: Key Dates

The NHL regular season began on October 8, 2024, and will run through April 12, 2025. Each team will play 82 games, with matchups scheduled throughout the season. Some key dates to keep in mind:

• Thanksgiving Showdown: November 29, 2024

• Winter Classic: January 1, 2025 (Chicago Blackhawks vs. Philadelphia Flyers at the iconic Notre Dame Stadium)

• All-Star Weekend: January 24-26, 2025, in Toronto, Ontario

• NHL Trade Deadline: March 10, 2025

• Final Regular Season Game: April 12, 2025

The schedule includes a mix of regional rivalries and cross-conference showdowns, with fan-favorite teams like the Boston Bruins, Colorado Avalanche, and Toronto Maple Leafs playing key matchups on various weekends and holidays.

The full NHL regular season schedule is available to view here.

How to Watch NHL Games: TV Channels and Online Platforms

There are several options for watching the 2024-25 NHL season, including both traditional cable channels and streaming platforms, for those who have cut the cord. Here's a breakdown of the main ways to catch the games:

TV Channels:

• ESPN: Many NHL games are broadcast on ESPN, including exclusive coverage of select matchups and the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

• ABC: ABC airs marquee NHL games on weekends, typically Saturdays and Sundays.

• TNT: Offers NHL games throughout the season, particularly on Wednesday nights, and also covers playoff games.

• Sportsnet (Canada): Available for Canadian audiences, airing national and regional NHL games.

Streaming Platforms:

ESPN+: A primary option for streaming NHL games in the U.S. ESPN+ offers out-of-market games and select live national broadcasts. Subscribers can watch thousands of games through this platform.

NHL.tv (through ESPN+): This service provides access to out-of-market games for fans who want to watch their favorite team even if they’re not in the local market.

Hulu: Hulu has an agreement with ESPN and offers live NHL games through its Hulu + Live TV service, which includes ESPN channels.

TNT App: For those with a cable or satellite subscription that includes TNT, you can also stream NHL games through the TNT app on various devices.

Sportsnet NOW (Canada): Canadian viewers can stream all NHL games live, including Stanley Cup Playoffs, through Sportsnet NOW. A subscription is required.

YouTube TV: Offers access to NHL broadcasts via channels like ESPN, ABC, and TNT, making it a convenient streaming alternative.

FuboTV: Another cable alternative that provides channels like ESPN and TNT for live NHL broadcasts.

Learn more: 10 Best Free Sites To Watch National Hockey League (NHL) Without Ads

Can You Watch NHL Games for Free?

While it's challenging to watch all NHL games for free legally, there are a few options for catching games without a subscription:

  • Free Trials: Services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and FuboTV offer free trials that typically last 7 days. You can take advantage of these trials to watch games without paying during the trial period.

  • Locally Aired Games: Some NHL games broadcast on ABC or local sports networks can be watched for free using an HD antenna, provided you're within range of a broadcast signal.

  • ESPN Free Streams: On rare occasions, ESPN+ may offer free streams for specific games or provide highlights, so it's worth checking their schedule or app.

In Conclusion

The 2024-25 NHL season promises to deliver plenty of excitement for hockey fans worldwide. With multiple ways to watch the games—whether on traditional TV or via online streaming platforms—you won't miss out on the action. Streaming services like ESPN+, Hulu, and YouTube TV have made it easier for fans to watch their favorite teams without the need for cable. And while watching NHL games for free is limited, using free trials or local broadcasts can offer temporary solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. When does the NHL 2024-25 regular season end?

    • The regular season concludes on April 12, 2025.

  2. Which channels broadcast NHL games in the U.S.?

    • Major networks include ESPN, ABC, and TNT.

  3. Can I watch NHL games online without cable?

    • Yes, services like ESPN+, Hulu + Live TV, and YouTube TV offer streaming options.

  4. Are there free options to watch NHL games?

    • You can watch some games for free using free trials from streaming platforms or using an HD antenna for local broadcasts.

  5. What is the NHL Winter Classic, and when is it?

    • The Winter Classic is an annual outdoor hockey game, held on January 1, 2025, between the Chicago Blackhawks and Philadelphia Flyers.
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