There’s no better way to heat up in the dead of winter than watching two hockey players smash into the board while one of their teammates steals the puck and sinks into deep into the net. And we get plenty of that each year from October through June!
Here’s our daily guide to watching NHL games on TV in the 2024-2025 season. We’ll keep this page up to date each day, so you don’t miss any of the exciting NHL games today on TV. Will the Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers pull of a repeat, or will another hopeful team challenge them for the crown?
For fans who are serious about sports, and only sports, get a channel lineup packed with the games you want – only from DIRECTV.
NHL Games on Today
FRIDAY, MARCH 21
Columbus Blue Jackets at Pittsburgh Penguins – 7:00 PM – NHL Center Ice, NHL Network
The Columbus Blue Jackets (31-28-9) are coming into this matchup after suffering a recent dip in performance, marked by a five-game losing streak. With an average of 3.2 goals scored and 3.3 goals allowed per game, the Blue Jackets have demonstrated offensive capabilities but also vulnerabilities in defense, which they’ll need to tighten up against the Pittsburgh Penguins (28-32-10). The Penguins are similarly struggling, riding a one-game losing streak with a challenge in keeping their defensive line secure, allowing a hefty 3.6 goals against per game. Both teams will see this game as an opportunity to change course, with Pittsburgh needing to capitalize on their slightly better power play performance, scoring on 24% of their opportunities, which could tip the scale in their favor. Expect a gritty contest as these teams look to inch back towards a positive season trajectory.
SATURDAY, MARCH 22
Vancouver Canucks at New York Rangers – 1:00 PM – NHL Center Ice, NHL Network
The Vancouver Canucks (32-25-12) travel to face the New York Rangers (33-31-6) in a matchup that sees both teams looking to solidify their positions in a fiercely competitive season. The Canucks, with a win percentage of 55%, have been a consistent force due in part to their potent power play unit converting at 23%, while also maintaining a solid defensive stance. However, their defense will need to tighten up against the Rangers’ balanced attack, which averages 3 goals per game. New York’s ability to capitalize on power play opportunities at 18% and maintain a respectable penalty kill could keep them competitive against Vancouver’s offensive threats. With both teams hovering around the playoff picture, stepping up in this contest will be crucial for their postseason aspirations.
Philadelphia Flyers at Dallas Stars – 2:00 PM – NHL Center Ice, Victory+
The Philadelphia Flyers (28-34-8) are looking to gain some traction as they head to the Lone Star State to challenge the high-flying Dallas Stars (43-21-4). The Flyers have struggled this season with a win percentage of just 46%, and they’re facing difficulties in both offensive and defensive play, allowing 3.4 goals per game on average while scoring only 2.8. Their upcoming matchup against the Stars will test their resilience even further. Dallas, with an impressive 66% win rate, boasts a potent offensive lineup averaging 3.4 goals per game while also playing stingy defense by allowing just 2.6. The Stars, with their strong power play success at 23% and an effective penalty kill at 84%, will aim to capitalize on the Flyers’ vulnerabilities. If Philadelphia hopes to take anything away from this contest, they’ll need to tighten up their defensive play to handle Dallas’s prolific scorers.
Buffalo Sabres at Minnesota Wild – 2:00 PM – NHL Center Ice
The Buffalo Sabres (27-34-6) have had a tough season as their record indicates, and they’re heading into this matchup with some defensive woes, allowing an average of 3.5 goals per game. Their offensive production at 3.1 goals per game suggests they can score, but a leaky defense and a middling penalty kill at 77% hinder their potential. The Minnesota Wild (39-25-5), on the other hand, are in a better position overall, showcasing a more balanced game with both scoring and defense averaging around 2.8 goals per game. Their 21% power play success rate could play a crucial role in punishing the Sabres’ defensive lapses. If Minnesota maintains their composure and capitalizes on power plays, they stand to solidify their stride towards the playoffs.
Chicago Blackhawks at St. Louis Blues – 3:00 PM – NHL Center Ice
The Chicago Blackhawks (20-40-9) have had a challenging season, highlighted by defensive struggles as they allow an average of 3.6 goals per game. Despite a notable 25% power play success rate, the team will need more consistent defensive and 5-on-5 play to compete with opponents. The St. Louis Blues (35-28-7) are sitting in a better position, showcasing a balanced style of play with strengths in offense averaging three goals per game and a solid penalty kill at 73%. Entering this matchup, the Blues will look to capitalize on their opponent’s defensive weaknesses, aiming to secure important points as they edge closer to playoff contention. However, the Blackhawks could pose a threat if they find ways to ignite their offense.
Carolina Hurricanes at Los Angeles Kings – 4:00 PM – NHL Center Ice
The Carolina Hurricanes (42-22-4) are enjoying an impressive season with a potent combination of offensive prowess and defensive stability. Averaging 3.2 goals per game while allowing just 2.6, the Hurricanes have been a force to be reckoned with, supported by their strong penalty-killing efforts at 85%. In their matchup against the LA Kings (37-21-9), Carolina will look to leverage their balanced style to gain an edge. The Kings, on the other hand, have been solid this season with a record of 62%, scoring 2.8 and conceding 2.6 goals per game. Los Angeles will need to rely on their defensive discipline to thwart the Hurricanes’ attack and capitalize on scoring opportunities to tilt the game in their favor.
Calgary Flames at New York Islanders – 4:00 PM – NHL Center Ice
The Calgary Flames (32-25-11) are looking to build on a solid season where they have demonstrated strong defensive play, allowing an average of just 2.9 goals per game. Their power play, working at 21%, has been a key factor in their success. In contrast, the New York Islanders (32-28-8) have had a rocky road, struggling to find consistency with a power play conversion rate of only 12%, the lowest in the league. Despite this, their ability to keep games tight by conceding an average of just 3 goals gives them a fighting chance. This matchup may well come down to special teams’ performance, where Calgary holds a distinct advantage. If the Islanders are to clinch a win, tightening up defensively against a calculated Flames offense will be crucial.
Florida Panthers at Washington Capitals – 5:00 PM – NHL Center Ice
The Florida Panthers (42-24-3) come into this matchup with a balanced and high-scoring attack, averaging 3.2 goals per game while maintaining a solid defense that allows just 2.7. With a potent power play at 24%, they will look to capitalize on any opportunities against the formidable Washington Capitals (46-15-8), who are leading with an impressive 72% win rate this season. The Capitals boast the best defense in the league, averaging only 2.6 goals against while scoring 3.6 goals per game, showcasing their ability to control both ends of the ice. Florida’s challenge will be penetrating this disciplined defensive structure and minimizing the Capitals’ explosive scoring threats. This game sets the stage for a fierce battle, with Washington’s home advantage and Florida’s resilient offensive firepower promising an exciting contest.
Tampa Bay Lightning at Utah Hockey Club – 5:00 PM – NHL Center Ice
The Tampa Bay Lightning (40-23-5) have been impressive this season with their high-scoring abilities, averaging 3.5 goals per game, and their strong special teams with a power play success rate of 26%. They’re coming off a robust run, looking to maintain pressure on the (31-27-11), whose season has been more of a rollercoaster ride. Utah has struggled to find consistency but will rely on their decent 22% power play conversion to keep pace with Tampa Bay’s potent offense. The Lightning’s strong performance this season, combined with their disciplined approach at both ends, makes them a formidable challenge for Utah. If the doesn’t tighten up their defense, Tampa Bay could easily extend their winning momentum in this matchup.
Colorado Avalanche at Montreal Canadiens – 7:00 PM – NHL Center Ice
The Colorado Avalanche (42-25-3) head into this showdown on firm footing, armed with a high-powered offense that averages 3.3 goals per game. Their strong offensive capabilities, combined with a formidable power play efficiency at 24%, make them a tough contender. Matching up with the Montreal Canadiens (33-27-8), who maintain a slightly below-average defense by conceding 3.3 goals per game, the Avalanche will look to capitalize on any defensive lapses. However, the Canadiens have demonstrated flashes of offensive prowess with an average of 3 goals per game. Montreal will need to exploit every chance against a slightly vulnerable Avalanche defense allowing 2.9 goals per game.
Ottawa Senators at New Jersey Devils – 7:00 PM – NHL Center Ice
The Ottawa Senators (36-27-5) are aiming to solidify their respectable season as they take on the New Jersey Devils (37-27-6) in what promises to be a competitive encounter. The Senators have shown balanced play, averaging 2.9 goals while conceding the same amount per game, and their power play percentage of 24% suggests they can capitalize on special teams. Meanwhile, the Devils have a slight edge in defensive play, allowing only 2.6 goals per game and boasting an impressive penalty kill rate of 83%. With New Jersey’s potent offense (averaging 3 goals per game) and Ottawa looking to leverage their power play opportunities, this matchup could hinge on which team manages special teams play more effectively.
Toronto Maple Leafs at Nashville Predators – 7:00 PM – NHL Center Ice
The Toronto Maple Leafs (42-24-3) come into this game riding high on their potent offense, averaging 3.2 goals while boasting a 26% success rate on the power play. Their solid record positions them as a formidable force in the league. Meanwhile, the Nashville Predators (25-35-8) are struggling, with a rocky defensive record allowing 3.3 goals per game. However, Nashville’s 21% power play efficiency might pose a threat if they can capitalize on Toronto’s penalties. This matchup will heavily depend on whether the Predators can tighten up defensively and contain the Leafs’ elite scorers to have a chance at an upset.
Detroit Red Wings at Vegas Golden Knights – 8:00 PM – ABC, ESPN
The Detroit Red Wings (32-30-6) are heading into this matchup with a balanced but slightly inconsistent performance this season, scoring an average of 2.9 goals while allowing 3.2 per game. Their power play has been effective, converting 28% of their opportunities, but they struggle defensively, which could be a problem against the high-flying offense of the Vegas Golden Knights (40-20-8). Vegas has been impressive with their 65% win percentage, boasting an average of 3.3 goals scored per game while keeping opponents to an average of 2.7. The Golden Knights’ top-tier power play (29%) and solid penalty kill (77%) make them a challenging adversary. Detroit will need to tighten their defense and capitalize on scoring chances to compete with a team that’s been among the league leaders all season.
Seattle Kraken at Edmonton Oilers – 10:00 PM – NHL Center Ice
The Seattle Kraken (30-35-5) are navigating a challenging season with a sub-.500 record, largely due to their defensive vulnerabilities, allowing an average of 3.2 goals per game. Their power play has shown promise with a 19% success rate, but facing the high-scoring Edmonton Oilers (40-24-5), who average 3.2 goals per game and boast a potent power play of their own at 25%, presents a significant test. The Oilers’ balanced offensive and defensive play, coupled with their solid home performance, positions them as a formidable opponent in this matchup. For Seattle to compete, they will need to tighten up defensively and capitalize on any power play opportunities that come their way.
Boston Bruins at San Jose Sharks – 10:30 PM – NHL Center Ice
The Boston Bruins (30-31-9) are navigating a challenging season, struggling with consistency given their suboptimal win percentage. They’ve been averaging 2.7 goals per game while allowing 3.2, which indicates a defensive vulnerability they’re keen to address. Their matchup against the San Jose Sharks (18-42-9) presents an opportunity, as the Sharks are having an even tougher time, with significant defensive shortcomings reflected in the 3.7 goals they allow per game. San Jose’s offense, averaging just 2.6 goals, may struggle to capitalize on Boston’s weaknesses.
SUNDAY, MARCH 23
Buffalo Sabres at Winnipeg Jets – 3:00 PM – NHL Center Ice
The Buffalo Sabres (27-34-6) are looking to break out of a slump that has seen them struggling defensively, allowing an average of 3.5 goals per game. Offensively, they can be a threat, averaging 3.1 goals, but they’ll need more consistency to challenge the stingy defense of the Winnipeg Jets (48-18-4). The Jets boast one of the best records in the league, powered by their potent offense that scores 3.5 goals per game while maintaining a solid defense, limiting opponents to just 2.4. Winnipeg’s impressive power play efficiency, converting 30% of the time, combined with their disciplined defense, makes them a formidable opponent. For the Sabres to have a chance, they’ll need to tighten up their defensive play and capitalize on any power play opportunities against a Jets squad cruising atop the standings.
Philadelphia Flyers at Chicago Blackhawks – 3:00 PM – ,NHL Center Ice, NHL Network
The Philadelphia Flyers (28-34-8) enter this afternoon matchup looking to break a three-game slide, as inconsistency continues to plague their season. Their defensive woes are evident, allowing an average of 3.4 goals per game, and their special teams need tightening with a power play at just 14% effectiveness. In contrast, the Chicago Blackhawks (20-40-9) are in the midst of a challenging rebuilding phase. Despite their own struggles, especially on defense where they concede a league-high 3.6 goals per contest, their power play is a surprisingly bright spot at 25%.
Pittsburgh Penguins at Florida Panthers – 6:00 PM – NHL Center Ice
The Pittsburgh Penguins (28-32-10) are struggling with consistency this season, as evidenced by their recent slump of four losses in a row. Their defense has been porous, conceding an average of 3.6 goals per game, which could be problematic against the high-octane offense of the Florida Panthers (42-24-3). Florida, on the other hand, is cruising along with a robust 24% power play success rate and an average of 3.2 goals per game. To stay competitive, the Penguins will need to tighten up their defense and capitalize on any opportunities Florida’s defense might offer. Given their current forms, this matchup seems tilted in favor of the Panthers, who are looking to fortify their position in the playoff race with a solid home performance.
Nashville Predators at St. Louis Blues – 6:00 PM – NHL Center Ice
The Nashville Predators (25-35-8) have had a turbulent season, struggling to find consistency with a win percentage of just 43%. Offensively, they’ve managed a modest 2.5 goals per game while conceding 3.3, highlighting their defensive vulnerabilities. Their power play at 21% shows glimpses of potential, but it often lacks the execution needed to capitalize in critical moments. On the other hand, the St. Louis Blues (35-28-7) are enjoying a relatively solid season with a win percentage of 55%. They’ve scored at a steady clip of 3 goals per game and demonstrate a balanced offensive approach, complemented by a penalty kill efficient at 73%. The Blues’ more stable play could give them an edge on home ice, though the Predators will be eager to disrupt and close the gap in their overall standings.
Tampa Bay Lightning at Vegas Golden Knights – 8:00 PM – NHL Center Ice
The Tampa Bay Lightning (40-23-5) are cruising through the season with an explosive offense averaging 3.5 goals per game, backed by a respectable defense allowing just 2.7. Known for their aggressive power play that converts at a rate of 26%, the Lightning will rely on their special teams to make an impact in this high-profile matchup. Standing in their way are the Vegas Golden Knights (40-20-8), who have been equally compelling, boasting a tight defense that also allows 2.7 goals per game, but with an even higher offensive efficacy, scoring 3.3 goals per game. With a power play success of 29% and looking to capitalize on Tampa Bay’s penalties, Vegas will aim to leverage their home advantage.
Carolina Hurricanes at Anaheim Ducks – 8:00 PM – NHL Center Ice, Victory+
The Carolina Hurricanes (42-22-4) have had a fantastic season, marked by their impressive 65% win percentage, ranking them among the NHL’s elite. With a potent offense averaging 3.2 goals per game and a stingy defense allowing just 2.6, they’re a balanced team that’s hard to beat. Their power play may not be their strongest suit at 18%, but they make up for it with an incredible 85% penalty kill. On the other side, the Anaheim Ducks (30-31-8) are hovering around .500 with a 49% win percentage. They face a tough challenge as their defense has struggled, allowing 3.1 goals per game. If the Ducks can find a way to stymie the Hurricanes’ high-powered offense, perhaps capitalizing on their power play opportunities given the Hurricanes’ occasional lapses, they could turn this into a more competitive contest. However, the Hurricanes’ form suggests they might extend their winning ways against Anaheim.
Boston Bruins at Los Angeles Kings – 9:00 PM – NESN, NHL Center Ice
The Boston Bruins (30-31-9) head into their matchup against the LA Kings (37-21-9) in need of a turnaround as they navigate a difficult stretch, highlighted by their recent four-game losing streak. The Bruins have struggled to find consistency, allowing an average of 3.2 goals against while only managing 2.7 goals for themselves, making every game a battle. Meanwhile, the LA Kings have been solid, boasting a disciplined defense that only lets up 2.6 goals per game. With the Kings’ defense standing strong and their penalty kill operating at an impressive 82%, the Bruins will need to maximize their scoring chances and tighten up defensively if they hope to snap their losing streak against a formidable Kings squad.
Where to Watch NHL Games
There are plenty of places to make sure you don’t miss a moment of your favorite NHL team’s season. Here’s where to watch NHL hockey games on TV today and all season long:
- REGIONAL SPORTS LINEUP (only available in some areas)
- TNT – 245
- ESPN – 206
- ABC –Check local listings
- NHL Network
- NHL Center Ice*
*currently available for satellite customers
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Frequently Asked Questions
When does the 2024-2025 NHL season start?
The NHL season begins on October 4, 2024.
When does the 2024-2025 NHL season end?
The NHL season ends on April 17, 2025.
Who won the NHL Stanley Cup Final last season?
The Florida Panthers won the 2024 NHL Stanley Cup Final.
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