The Ontario Hockey League has unveiled its 2026 preseason slate, a 53‑game schedule that will run from August 28 through September 13. The plan spreads the action across Ontario and into British Columbia, offering fans a busy lead‑in to the regular season.
A key feature of the schedule is the cross‑league component, which pits OHL teams against clubs from the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and the Western Hockey League. Among the marquee matchups, the London Knights will travel to Victoria, British Columbia, to face the Victoria Royals.
Key matchups
The inter‑league tests include several high‑profile games, with the Knights‑Royals clash in Victoria standing out as a highlight for supporters eager to see top talent from both leagues.
Community stops
The league will stage games in a dozen communities beyond the traditional OHL venues, including King City, Timmins, Watford, Arnprior, Cornwall, Fort Erie, Leamington, LaSalle, Elmira and Stouffville. These stops aim to bring the excitement of preseason hockey closer to fans across the province.
Overall, 16 of the exhibition contests are slated for non‑OHL arenas, underscoring the league’s effort to broaden its reach and provide diverse playing environments for teams and spectators alike.
Seven teams are set to appear in six games apiece, and the Saginaw Spirit will carry the most extensive exhibition workload, ensuring a packed schedule for the club throughout the preseason window.
The preseason will culminate with a series of games that set the stage for the regular season, giving fans a chance to see new lineups, prospects and fresh chemistry in action before the official start of league play.