Best NHL Streaming Services for the 2025-2026 Season

Noah Walker

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Watching hockey has changed a lot in recent years. Fans now have many options to follow their favorite NHL teams without cable TV. From dedicated sports apps to live TV streaming services, there are many ways to catch games throughout the season.

Finding the right NHL streaming service depends on which games you want to watch and how much you’re willing to pay. Some services offer more local games while others focus on national broadcasts. The good news is that with the right streaming setup, hockey fans can watch most or all NHL games during the regular season and playoffs.

1) ESPN+

ESPN+ is a top option for NHL fans who want to stream hockey games. The service lets you watch live NHL games throughout the season.

For $10.99 per month, subscribers get access to many regular season matchups. The service doesn’t include every game, though. Local blackouts still apply, and some games air on other networks.

ESPN+ offers more than just live games. Fans can enjoy exclusive originals and daily highlights through the “In the Crease” show. The platform also includes Stanley Cup archives for hockey history buffs.

You can easily stream games through the ESPN app or website. The service works on phones, tablets, computers, and streaming devices like Roku or Fire TV.

Hockey isn’t the only sport available. Your subscription includes access to many other sports, making it a good value for general sports fans.

Some NHL games are shared with Hulu as part of the Disney bundle. This means Hulu subscribers might also see select hockey games.

ESPN+ doesn’t replace cable entirely for NHL viewing. National games on TNT or regular ESPN channels require separate access. These limits are important to consider before subscribing.

The service does offer special hockey content like “GR8TNESS” and “No Easy Victories: The 1994 New York Rangers.” These programs give fans extra hockey content beyond just games.

2) Hulu + Live TV

Hulu + Live TV offers hockey fans a solid way to watch NHL games. The service includes over 95 live channels along with Hulu’s entire streaming library.

With Hulu + Live TV, you can watch many NHL games that air on ESPN, ABC, TNT, and local channels. The package has been named the “Best Live TV Streaming Service Overall of 2024” by some reviewers.

One big plus is that Hulu + Live TV now comes bundled with Disney+ and ESPN+. This combination gives hockey fans access to even more NHL content through the ESPN+ platform.

The service includes unlimited DVR at no extra cost. This means you can record games to watch later if you can’t catch them live.

It’s worth noting that Hulu + Live TV does not include the NHL Network channel. If you specifically want NHL Network, you’ll need to look at other services like Sling TV, Vidgo, or Fubo TV.

Setup is straightforward with no hidden fees. You can watch on multiple devices including phones, tablets, and smart TVs.

For European hockey fans, Hulu also offers some NHL Saturday and NHL Sunday games in prime time. This makes it easier to follow games without staying up all night.

The service works well for casual NHL fans who want a mix of hockey and other programming. With its combination of live TV and streaming content, Hulu + Live TV provides good value for sports fans.

3) YouTube TV

YouTube TV is a top choice for NHL fans looking to catch all the action. This service offers live streaming of NHL games from major networks like ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, and ESPN.

Sports lovers can start with a free trial to test the service before committing. After the trial ends, subscribers get access to a wide range of channels that show hockey games throughout the season.

One key benefit of YouTube TV is its user-friendly interface. Fans can easily find and record NHL games to watch later if they can’t tune in live.

The service includes unlimited cloud DVR storage. This feature lets hockey enthusiasts save games and highlights to enjoy whenever they want.

YouTube TV works on many devices including smart TVs, phones, tablets, and computers. This flexibility means fans can watch NHL action at home or on the go.

It’s worth noting that YouTube TV no longer carries Bally Sports Regional Sports Networks. However, it does include NBC Sports regional networks, which show many local hockey games.

For hockey fans who follow other sports too, YouTube TV is an excellent all-around option. The service ranks as one of the best NHL streaming services according to expert reviews.

The main drawback is that some local games may not be available due to regional restrictions. Fans who want every possible NHL game might need to combine YouTube TV with another service like ESPN+.

4) FuboTV

FuboTV stands out as a sports-focused streaming service that offers NHL fans several ways to watch their favorite teams. Subscribers can watch NHL games in 4K quality, giving you a crystal-clear view of every slap shot and save.

The service includes access to key channels that broadcast hockey games. You can watch national NHL broadcasts on ABC, ESPN, and NHL Network depending on your subscription package.

FuboTV also carries many regional sports networks (RSNs) that show local team games. This makes it helpful for fans who want to follow their hometown teams throughout the season.

The platform works on multiple devices. You can stream games on your computer, smartphone, tablet, or TV-connected devices like Roku, Fire TV, and Apple TV.

One thing to note is that FuboTV doesn’t control blackout rules. These restrictions come from the NHL and its broadcast partners, not the streaming service itself.

The NHL Network channel on Fubo provides more than just games. It offers signature studio shows and complete coverage of NHL special events like the Winter Classic and All-Star Weekend.

Viewers should be aware that not all games will be available in all areas due to regional broadcast rights. Some games shown on ESPN might require an additional ESPN+ subscription for complete access.

FuboTV offers different subscription tiers with varying channel lineups. Hockey fans should check which package includes the specific channels they need before signing up.

5) Sling TV

Sling TV offers hockey fans a cost-effective way to watch NHL games. Their service starts at just $23 for the first month, making it one of the more affordable options for sports streaming.

With Sling Orange, viewers get access to NHL games broadcast on ESPN and TNT. This package includes over 30 channels for a regular price of $40 per month after the promotional period ends.

Hockey enthusiasts should note that Sling’s sports coverage is split between their Orange and Blue packages. The Orange package is essential for NHL fans since it carries ESPN networks.

Sling allows users to customize their subscription with various add-ons. This flexibility helps viewers pay only for the content they want to watch.

One unique aspect of Sling’s NHL coverage is that the NHL Network channel doesn’t allow recording. This differs from most other channels on the platform.

Sling’s interface makes it easy to find live sports events. Users can quickly locate NHL games without digging through menus or schedules.

The service works on most major streaming devices including Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, and gaming consoles. This wide compatibility ensures fans can watch games on their preferred screens.

For hockey viewers who want more than just NHL content, Sling offers a diverse channel lineup including entertainment, news, and other sports networks.

While Sling doesn’t offer as many NHL games as some specialized services, it provides a good balance of sports and general entertainment at a reasonable price point.

6) DirecTV Stream

DirecTV Stream offers hockey fans a solid option for watching NHL games. The service provides access to many of the networks that broadcast hockey throughout the season.

Hockey fans can catch games on major networks like ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, TBS, and TNT through DirecTV Stream. These channels are especially important during the 2025 Stanley Cup finals.

DirecTV Stream also includes Regional Sports Networks in many of its packages. These local channels are key for following your hometown team throughout the regular season.

The service offers NHL CENTER ICE as an add-on option. This premium package gives fans up to 40 out-of-market games each week during the season.

Sports lovers will find that DirecTV Stream isn’t just for hockey. The platform also carries NFL football, NBA basketball, MLB baseball, NASCAR, MLS soccer, golf, tennis, and more.

One big plus is the ability to stream games on mobile devices and various streaming gadgets. This flexibility lets fans catch games whether they’re at home or on the go.

DirecTV Stream does come at a higher price point than some competitors. However, the wide range of sports content might justify the cost for serious hockey fans.

Not every NHL game is available on DirecTV Stream. Some matches may be exclusive to other platforms like Prime Video or Fubo, based on broadcasting rights.

7) NHL Network on Fubo

Fubo offers hockey fans access to the NHL Network as part of their streaming package. This channel serves as a central hub for hockey enthusiasts looking for comprehensive NHL coverage.

The NHL Network provides live games, signature studio shows, and special event coverage. For fans who want to keep up with hockey action without cable, this is a valuable option.

You can watch NHL Network live with Fubo without needing a traditional cable subscription. The service streams live TV over the internet, making it easy to follow your favorite teams.

Fubo also includes other channels that broadcast NHL games. This expanded coverage helps ensure you can watch more of the games you care about.

To check which NHL games are available in your area, you can enter your zip code on the Fubo support page. This tool helps you see exactly what hockey content you can access.

Along with NHL Network, Fubo offers about 200+ channels. This variety gives hockey fans options beyond just NHL-specific content.

For out-of-market games not shown on the NHL Network, other streaming options may be needed. Some games appear exclusively on traditional cable channels like TNT.

Hockey fans should note that Fubo is one of only three services that offer NHL Network, alongside DirecTV Stream and Sling TV. This makes it a good choice for dedicated hockey viewers.

8) FloSports Hockey

FloSports Hockey offers a specialized streaming platform for hockey fans. The service provides live and on-demand hockey content across junior, college, and professional leagues.

With a FloSports Hockey subscription, viewers can access a variety of hockey games that might not be available on mainstream networks. The platform includes live events, replays, films, shows, interviews, and highlights to satisfy different viewing preferences.

Hockey enthusiasts can watch teams from leagues like the ECHL on FloSports. For example, they stream games such as Kansas City vs Greenville matches, giving fans more options beyond major league games.

Some hockey fans have questioned whether FloHockey is worth the subscription cost. The value largely depends on which teams and leagues a viewer follows, as the service focuses on coverage beyond just NHL games.

FloSports operates as part of the larger FloSports network, which covers many sports with dedicated streaming options. This gives subscribers access to real-time stats, game clips, rankings, and news alongside the video content.

For NHL fans specifically, it’s worth noting that FloSports Hockey carries many games that appear on NHL Network. This makes it a possible alternative to services like Fubo and Sling Orange for certain hockey content.

The platform works well for serious hockey fans who want to follow leagues and games not typically shown on traditional TV channels. Its focus on the sport provides deeper coverage than general sports streaming services.

9) Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+ Bundle

The Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ Bundle offers NHL fans a complete streaming package at different price points. This bundle is perfect for hockey enthusiasts who also enjoy other sports and entertainment content.

For hockey fans on a budget, the Bundle Trio Basic costs $12.99 per month. This plan includes ESPN+ with ads, which is key for NHL viewing. You get access to thousands of live sports events, including NHL games.

If you prefer fewer ads, you have options. The Disney Bundle Trio Premium costs $26.99 monthly, giving you Disney+ (no ads), Hulu (no ads), and ESPN+ (with ads). This makes for a smoother viewing experience.

There’s also a middle-tier option called the Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+ Bundle Basic at $16.99 per month. This provides a good balance between cost and viewing experience.

ESPN+ is the star for NHL fans in this bundle. It streams numerous NHL games throughout the season. The platform shows out-of-market games that aren’t available on local TV channels.

Hockey fans should note that ESPN+ doesn’t include every NHL game. Local blackouts still apply, and some games air exclusively on other networks. However, for the price, it offers solid NHL coverage.

The bundle value extends beyond hockey. Subscribers gain access to Hulu’s extensive TV and movie library, plus Disney+’s content. This makes it worth considering even during the NHL off-season.

10) Watch TNT and Max apps

NHL fans can easily stream games through the Watch TNT and Max apps. These platforms offer a convenient way to catch NHL on TNT broadcasts right from your devices.

The TNT app allows viewers to watch live sports including NHL games. You’ll need to sign in with your TV provider credentials to access the content. The app works on phones, tablets, and televisions.

You can download the TNT app from various app stores. It’s free to download, but remember that you need a cable subscription to unlock the full content.

Max (formerly HBO Max) has partnered with TNT to stream NHL games. This gives hockey fans another option to watch games through a service they might already have for other entertainment.

The apps offer more than just live games. You can also catch replays, highlights, and other NHL content when it fits your schedule.

Both apps work on multiple devices. This means you can watch games at home on your TV or on the go with your phone or tablet.

Picture quality is good on both apps. They stream in high definition when your internet connection supports it.

User interfaces are simple to use. Even if you’re not tech-savvy, you’ll find it easy to navigate to NHL games and start watching in seconds.

Understanding NHL Streaming

NHL streaming services let fans watch hockey games without cable TV. These platforms offer live games, highlights, and extras through internet connections on various devices.

How Streaming Services Work

NHL streaming platforms deliver hockey content directly to your devices through the internet. You need a good internet connection and a compatible device like a smart TV, phone, tablet, or computer.

Most services offer apps you can download to watch games. These apps work with cutting-edge production and high-quality streaming technology to bring the hockey action to you.

Streaming services use two main models:

  • Live TV streamers: YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and DirecTV Stream
  • Sport-specific services: ESPN+ and Sportsnet Now

Some require a monthly subscription, while others offer pay-per-view options for single games. Blackout restrictions may apply based on your location, but a VPN can sometimes help bypass these limits.

Benefits of Streaming Over Cable

Streaming NHL games gives fans more flexibility than traditional cable. Viewers can watch games on multiple devices anywhere they have internet access.

Cost savings are significant. Streaming packages like Sling or Hulu + Live TV often cost less than cable TV packages with sports channels.

Many streaming services include:

  • On-demand replay options
  • Multiple camera angles
  • Interactive stats during games
  • No long-term contracts

Streaming also gives fans access to out-of-market games they couldn’t watch with local cable. This is perfect for fans who support teams outside their region.

Recording games is easier too. Services like YouTube TV offer recording features so fans never miss a game, even when they can’t watch live.

Device Compatibility

Choosing the right streaming service means making sure it works on your devices. Today’s NHL streaming options have different compatibility with TVs, mobile devices, and other hardware.

Streaming on Smart TVs

Most major NHL streaming services work with popular smart TV platforms. Android TV and Amazon Fire TV support NHL streaming apps directly. These platforms make watching games simple with user-friendly interfaces.

For picture quality, Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV offer up to 1080p/60fps for live hockey games. This ensures smooth action during fast plays.

Other services like DIRECTV STREAM and Fubo also work well on smart TVs. They include NHL Network in their packages.

Popular Smart TV Platforms for NHL:

Accessing on Mobile Devices

NHL games are easily watchable on the go with mobile apps. Both iOS and Android devices support official NHL streaming apps. This makes catching games while traveling or away from home simple.

The NHL has dedicated apps for many platforms beyond just phones. These include tablets like iPad and Kindle devices.

ESPN+, part of many streaming packages, works well on mobile with a clean interface. Games load quickly and stream reliably even on cellular connections.

Most services allow multiple device registrations, so you can switch between your phone and tablet easily. Downloads for offline viewing are available with some premium subscriptions.

Mobile Features to Look For:

  • Push notifications for game starts
  • Highlights and replays
  • Stats and scores
  • Multiple viewing angles (on select services)

Frequently Asked Questions

Hockey fans often struggle to find the right streaming service for NHL games. Let’s address some common questions about NHL streaming options and their features.

Which streaming service offers the most comprehensive coverage of NHL games?

ESPN+ provides the most extensive NHL coverage for the 2024-2025 season. The service streams over 1,000 out-of-market games throughout the regular season.

YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV also offer strong coverage with access to national broadcasts on ESPN, TNT, and ABC.

FuboTV stands out for regional sports networks, making it ideal for following local teams.

Can you watch all NHL games with an ESPN+ subscription?

No, an ESPN+ subscription does not provide access to all NHL games. ESPN+ broadcasts include out-of-market games and some exclusive content.

Local blackouts still apply to regional games. National games shown on TNT require a separate streaming service or cable subscription.

ESPN+ costs $10.99 per month or $109.99 annually, making it affordable but not complete.

Are NHL games included with a Hulu Live TV package?

Yes, Hulu + Live TV includes NHL games broadcast on ESPN, ABC, and TNT. The package also includes ESPN+, giving subscribers access to out-of-market games.

Some regional sports networks are available depending on your location. Hulu + Live TV is a good option for fans who want both national broadcasts and ESPN+ content in one subscription.

Local blackouts still apply based on your location.

What is the most cost-effective method to stream NHL games?

The most affordable approach combines ESPN+ ($10.99/month) for out-of-market games with an HD antenna for free broadcasts on ABC. This combination covers many games for under $11 monthly.

Sling TV’s Orange + Blue package ($55/month) offers good value with ESPN and TNT included. It’s cheaper than full services like YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV.

For complete coverage, ESPN+ bundled with Disney+ and Hulu provides the best overall value.

How do NHL Center Ice and NHL.TV differ in their streaming offerings?

NHL.TV has been replaced by ESPN+ for U.S. viewers since the 2021-2022 season. International viewers still use NHL.TV for out-of-market games.

NHL Center Ice remains available through cable and satellite providers. It offers multi-game viewing and replays similar to the old NHL.TV package.

Center Ice is typically more expensive than ESPN+ but may be bundled with other cable services.

What options are available for streaming NHL games for free online?

Legal free options include watching nationally televised games on broadcast networks using an antenna. The NHL occasionally streams select games on their social media channels or website.

Some streaming services offer free trials, which can provide temporary access. TNT broadcasts sometimes allow limited free viewing with a TV provider login.

Free illegal streams exist but carry risks of malware and poor quality. They also violate copyright laws and terms of service agreements.