Can I Watch NHL 2026/27 for Free Anywhere?
Some countries offer a limited number of NHL games through free-to-air channels and streaming platforms. For example, viewers in the UK can catch selected games on ITVX, while Australian fans have access via 9Now. Additional free broadcasts are available in China through CCTV, in Sweden via SVT Play, and in Switzerland on TV24.
In the United States, free NHL games are quite rare, with occasional coverage on ABC. To watch for free, US viewers may use free trials from streaming services like YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV, both of which carry major NHL broadcasting channels.
Why Use a VPN to Stream NHL Games?
Because NHL broadcasting rights differ by region, some games may be geo-blocked depending on your location. Using a VPN can help bypass these restrictions by allowing you to securely connect to a server in a country where the NHL stream is available. This method lets you access your preferred NHL coverage from anywhere in the world.
Recommended VPN Features:
- Fast and reliable connections
- Servers in multiple countries
- Strong security and privacy protections
- Ability to cover multiple devices under one plan
How to Watch NHL 2026/27 in the United States
The NHL season is broadcast across several US networks. Key options include ABC and ESPN, which together cover 53 games, and TNT, broadcasting 72 games. Streaming platforms offering NHL content include the ESPN app, Hulu, and Disney Plus with 47 games available.
If you don’t have cable, over-the-top (OTT) services such as Sling TV offer packages that include ESPN and TNT. Sling Orange costs $4.99 per day or $45.99 monthly, while the combined Orange + Blue plan (at $60.99 monthly) adds ABC in select cities. Other OTT services with free trials include YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and Fubo.
For out-of-market games, the NHL Power Play service on the ESPN app provides access to over 1,050 games, requiring an ESPN Unlimited plan ($31.99/month or $319.99/year).
How to Watch NHL 2026/27 in Canada
Canada offers a broad selection of NHL broadcasts via Sportsnet, Sportsnet+ streaming, Amazon Prime Video, and TVA. Subscription costs vary:
- Sportsnet+: C$29.99/month
- Amazon Prime Video: C$9.99/month or C$99/year
- TVA Sports Direct: C$17.99/month or C$179.99/year
If you face geo-blocking that restricts access to your favorite games, a VPN can help you reconnect to your preferred Canadian NHL streams regardless of your location.
How to Watch NHL 2026/27 in the UK
The UK’s most comprehensive NHL coverage is available through NHL.TV on DAZN, which streams every regular season, playoff, and Stanley Cup game. Pricing starts at £22.99/month, or £119.99 for a full season pass.
Premier Sports airs many games weekly, with flexible subscription options (£18.99 monthly rolling, £13.99 per month annual plan, or £150 upfront annual payment). From January 17, 2027, ITV4 free-to-air will broadcast selected weekend games, which are also available on the ITVX online platform.
If abroad, using a VPN is necessary to access these UK-based streaming services.
How to Watch NHL 2026/27 Worldwide
NHL.TV is the league’s dedicated global streaming service via DAZN, covering all games and playoffs in over 180 countries with regionally varying prices.
Many countries offer NHL broadcasts through their own networks:
- Africa: ESPN broadcasts in sub-Saharan regions.
- Latin America: ESPN and Disney+ carry most games.
- Europe: Various broadcasters such as Sky, Arena Sport, ESPN, Viaplay, and more depending on country.
- Asia: CCTV offers free games in China; ESPN covers other regions.
- Oceania: ESPN and Disney+ provide coverage; select games free on Channel 9 in Australia.
Key Takeaway: Make Your Best NHL Viewing Choice
NHL 2026/27 offers multiple viewing options globally, but availability depends heavily on your location. Free watching is limited but possible in select countries and via free trials on streaming platforms. Subscriptions to services like ESPN, Sportsnet+, DAZN, and regional broadcasters offer full coverage with reliable streams. A VPN is an essential tool if you want unhindered access to NHL games regardless of your physical location, helping you avoid geo-restrictions and enabling you to use your preferred streaming service anywhere.