The NHL’s International Expansion: A Look at the League’s Global Reach
The NHL has been making strides in expanding its international footprint in recent years, with a focus on playing games in various countries around the world. This season alone, the League has played preseason games in Germany, regular-season games in Czechia and Finland, and has plans to continue this trend in the future.
Deputy commissioner Bill Daly recently spoke at the European Player Media Tour, highlighting the NHL’s interest in developing markets in different countries. While the League has established a rotation of games in Finland, Sweden, and Czechia, Daly hinted that this could change in the near future, indicating a willingness to explore new territories.
Since 2017, the NHL has played a total of 20 regular-season games in Europe, with nine in Sweden, six in Finland, and five in Czechia. Additionally, there have been 13 preseason games in various locations such as Switzerland, Germany, and Australia. The League has yet to play a regular-season game in Switzerland and has only played one in Germany, showing potential for further expansion in these regions.
London, Germany, and Switzerland are identified as priority markets for the NHL, with Daly expressing a desire to return to these locations for regular-season games. The League also has plans to revisit Australia for preseason games, following a successful experience with the Arizona Coyotes and Los Angeles Kings playing in Melbourne in 2023.
One of the challenges in expanding to Australia is ensuring NHL-caliber ice quality, as Daly emphasized the importance of player safety. Despite this, the positive feedback from the teams involved in the Melbourne games has paved the way for potential future events in the country.
Looking ahead, the NHL has scheduled preseason and regular-season games in Munich, Prague, and Tampere for the upcoming season. These games will feature top teams like the Buffalo Sabres, New Jersey Devils, Dallas Stars, and Florida Panthers, showcasing the League’s commitment to global engagement.
In addition to these international games, NHL players are set to participate in the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics, pending final agreements with the IOC, NHLPA, and IIHF. Daly remains optimistic about the venue preparations for the Olympics and anticipates a successful event for the players and fans alike.
Overall, the NHL’s international expansion efforts demonstrate a commitment to growing the sport of hockey on a global scale. With plans to explore new markets and engage with fans around the world, the League is poised to continue its journey towards becoming a truly international organization.