The 2026‑27 NHL season is set to begin on September 29, following a condensed training camp and a slate of preseason matchups that will see the Colorado Avalanche take the ice for four exhibition games. Fans can already mark their calendars for those early‑season contests, which promise a preview of the competitive balance that will define the upcoming schedule.
Hall of Fame Class of 2026
The NHL announced its 2026 Hall of Fame inductees, a group that includes longtime leaders such as Patrice Bergeron, Brian Burke, Cindy Curley, Carey Price, Pekka Rinne, and Keith Tkachuk. Their careers have shaped the modern game, and their inclusion underscores the league’s reverence for both on‑ice excellence and off‑ice contributions.
Adding to the excitement, the brand‑new New Mexico Goatheads, an ECHL affiliate, have named Zack Stortini as their inaugural head coach. Stortini, who previously served as an assistant with the Tucson Roadrunners, brings a blend of playing experience and coaching ambition to the franchise’s first season.
The Goatheads unveiled their debut jerseys, which subtly echo the design language of the Colorado Avalanche sweaters, creating a visual link between the new club and its more established neighbor. The design choice reflects a broader narrative of emerging teams drawing inspiration from hockey’s traditional powerhouses while carving out their own identities.
Beyond the on‑ice storylines, the upcoming season will feature a geographic spread that stretches from the Rocky Mountains of Colorado to the desert landscapes of New Mexico and Arizona. The league’s expansion into these markets not only diversifies its fan base but also reinforces the sport’s growing footprint across the United States.