How to Stream NHL Hockey in 2026
Hockey is a sport of speed, and watching a low-quality stream with a low frame rate makes following the puck impossible. To get the best 60fps experience, you need to use the official broadcast partners. The NHL has divided its rights between the Walt Disney Company (ESPN/ABC) and Warner Bros. Discovery (TNT/TBS).
The Essential Service: ESPN+
If you are a hockey fan in the United States, ESPN+ is non-negotiable. It has replaced the old "NHL.tv" service. ESPN+ streams over 1,000 "out-of-market" games per season. This means if you are a Rangers fan living in Florida, you can watch every Rangers game live on ESPN+ (unless they are playing the Panthers or Lightning locally).
National TV Games
About 100 games per season are exclusive to national television and are NOT on ESPN+. These air on:
- TNT: The home of the Winter Classic and half of the playoffs.
- ESPN & ABC: The home of the All-Star Game and the other half of the playoffs.
Stanley Cup Playoffs Coverage
The Playoffs are a two-month marathon. Every single game is broadcast nationally. The rights to the Stanley Cup Final rotate annually between ABC and TNT, ensuring the biggest series of the year reaches the widest audience.