Colorado Avalanche unveil 2026‑27 NHL schedule
The National Hockey League has officially published the 2026‑27 schedule, confirming that the Avalanche will play a 84‑game season that kicks off in September. The expanded slate reflects the addition of two extra divisional matchups, giving the team more opportunities to jockey for position early in the year.
Opening night will be a marquee event, with the Avalanche hosting the Los Angeles Kings at Ball Arena. The game marks the first chance for fans to see the new roster in action and sets the tone for a campaign that promises plenty of high‑stakes matchups.
The league also announced a Winter Classic scheduled for December 31, featuring an outdoor showdown against Utah at Rice‑Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City. The historic venue will host a nationally televised game that draws attention beyond the usual hockey audience.
The schedule includes seven back‑to‑back sets before mid‑November, a five‑game road trip in early December followed by a five‑game homestand, and a total of 17 Saturday contests that are likely to attract larger crowds.
Notable series and milestones
A home‑and‑home series with the Dallas Stars will occupy the third week of the season, offering two contrasting styles of play in consecutive nights. The Avalanche will also face a demanding stretch of opponents that could shape their playoff positioning.
The season will wrap up on April 10, an earlier finish than in recent years. That compressed timeline may accelerate trade deadline activity, giving general management less time to maneuver before the playoffs.