Florida Panthers Set to Dazzle in Historic Outdoor NHL Winter Classic!
The Florida Panthers will feature in 15 national broadcasts during the 2025-26 season, including hosting the Rangers in the 2026 Winter Classic.
Florida Panthers Set to Dazzle in Historic Outdoor NHL Winter Classic!
Excitement is building in Florida as the NHL gears up for a season unlike any other. The Florida Panthers, fresh off their second consecutive Stanley Cup win, are set to feature prominently in the national spotlight during the 2025-26 NHL season. This year, 15 of the Panthers‘ 82 regular-season games will be broadcast nationally, with fans eager to catch their favorite team on NHL.com.
Things kick off on October 7, 2025, when the Panthers host the Chicago Blackhawks at 5 p.m. ET on ESPN. This event promises not only an electrifying game but also the ceremonial hanging of their championship banner, marking the club’s remarkable achievement. Additionally, fans can look forward to the highly anticipated Discover 2026 NHL Winter Classic featuring the Panthers and the New York Rangers at LoanDepot Park in Miami on January 2, 2026.
National Exposure and Local Broadcasts
This season, Panthers‘ games will grace various platforms, creating a unique blend of viewing experiences. The broadcast schedule includes:
| Date | Opponent | Time (ET) | Network |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct. 7, 2025 | Blackhawks | 5 p.m. | ESPN |
| Oct. 15, 2025 | @ Red Wings | 7 p.m. | TNT |
| Oct. 21, 2025 | @ Bruins | 7:30 p.m. | ESPN |
| Nov. 6, 2025 | @ Kings | 10:00 p.m. | ESPN+ |
| Dec. 2, 2025 | Maple Leafs | 7:30 p.m. | ESPN+ |
| Dec. 11, 2025 | @ Avalanche | 9 p.m. | ESPN |
| Jan. 2, 2026 | Rangers | 8 p.m. | TNT |
| Jan. 6, 2026 | @ Maple Leafs | 7:30 p.m. | TNT |
| Feb. 4, 2026 | Bruins | 7 p.m. | TNT |
| Feb. 5, 2026 | @ Lightning | 7:30 p.m. | ESPN+ |
| March 1, 2026 | @ Islanders | 6:30 p.m. | ESPN |
| March 3, 2026 | @ Devils | 7 p.m. | TNT |
| March 5, 2026 | @ Blue Jackets | 7 p.m. | ESPN |
| March 26, 2026 | Wild | 7 p.m. | ESPN |
| April 15, 2026 | Red Wings | 7 p.m. | TNT |
Local broadcasts of non-national games will be available through Scripps Sports and Panthers Plus, ensuring fans have access to all the action. For detailed viewing information, visit FloridaPanthers.com/HowToWatch.
A Historic Moment for Outdoor Hockey
Set your calendars! The 2026 NHL Winter Classic is set to thrill fans with its unique venue, marking a historic occasion as Florida hosts its first outdoor NHL game. Taking place at LoanDepot Park, the game against the Rangers is significant for several reasons. It’s not only the Panthers‘ first outdoor game but also their first match in Miami since 1998. This represents a milestone for a franchise that has been waiting for such an occasion for decades.
The NHL is pulling out all the stops for this event. A climate-controlled dome will be erected over the playing surface to combat Florida’s unpredictable weather. As NHL commissioner Gary Bettman highlighted, Florida has long been overlooked for outdoor games, but this year changes everything, with both the Panthers and Lightning showcasing their talents on a grand stage.
For hockey lovers, what more could you ask for? With thrilling matchups, a historic Winter Classic, and the promise of an unforgettable season, the Florida Panthers are ready to dazzle both fans and opponents alike. As the NHL embraces the Sunshine State in ways previously only dreamed of, the excitement surrounding these events is palpable, and the future looks bright for hockey in Florida. For more on the outdoor experiences, don’t forget to check out ESPN.