NHL
Key Matchups to Watch in the 2025 NHL Season
The 2025 NHL season promises an exciting year of hockey, with plenty of thrilling matchups and intense rivalries to keep fans on the edge of their seats. Whether you're a die-hard fan of a particular team or just enjoy the spectacle of the sport, there are certain games that should be on your radar.
Opening Night and Stadium Series
The NHL season always kicks off with a bang, and the opening night matchups are sure to set the tone for the year. Keep an eye out for the traditional rivalries that are often featured on opening night, like the Boston Bruins vs. the Montreal Canadiens or the Pittsburgh Penguins vs. the Philadelphia Flyers. Another exciting event to look out for is the Stadium Series, which sees NHL games played in outdoor stadiums around the country. This year’s Stadium Series features a matchup between the Buffalo Sabres and the Toronto Maple Leafs at the home of the Buffalo Bills in Orchard Park, New York.
Stanley Cup Playoffs
The Stanley Cup Playoffs is the pinnacle of the NHL season, and the battles for a spot in the postseason can be just as exciting as the playoffs themselves. There are several teams that could be in the mix for the Stanley Cup, including the Colorado Avalanche, the Tampa Bay Lightning, and the Edmonton Oilers. The playoffs always bring dramatic moments and unexpected upsets, so don't miss any of the action!
Canadian Classics
For Canadian hockey fans, the Battle of Alberta between the Calgary Flames and the Edmonton Oilers is always a must-watch. The two teams have a long, storied rivalry, and their games are always intense and physical. Another classic rivalry in Canada is the Battle of Ontario, which pits the Toronto Maple Leafs against the Ottawa Senators. Both teams have passionate fan bases, and their games are sure to be a hot ticket.
Rivalry Week
The NHL always designates a “Rivalry Week” in late October, early November, and it's a great time to catch some of the most heated matchups in the league. The teams that participate in Rivalry Week are selected by the NHL based on factors such as historical rivalry, recent competition, and fan interest. Rivalry week usually features several marquee matchups like the Washington Capitals vs. the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Chicago Blackhawks vs. the St. Louis Blues, and the Anaheim Ducks vs. the Los Angeles Kings.
Looking Ahead
The 2025 NHL season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory. With so many great teams and players in the league, fans can expect a lot of high-scoring games, exciting rivalries, and thrilling playoff battles. Whether you're a longtime fan or just starting to follow the sport, there's never been a better time to be a hockey fan.