The hidden CBA change that might hit Stars fans more than expected

The NHL's new 84-game schedule will give Dallas Stars fans more rivalry matchups, fewer preseason games, and a tougher road in the Central Division

Indeed, starting in the 2026-27 season, Dallas Stars fans will notice a big shift in their calendars.

Thanks to a new Collective Bargaining Agreement between the NHL and NHLPA, the league is officially expanding the regular season from 82 to 84 games. That means instead of 41 home games, fans at American Airlines Center will get 42.

At first glance, it's great news, more chances to see the Stars take on rivals, more ticket sales, and an extra reason to show up in Victory Green.

But that extra hockey might not come without trade-offs.

How the NHL's 84-game schedule will change preseason, rivalries, and divisional battles for Dallas Stars

To make room for the expanded schedule, the NHL will cut down preseason games. The Stars were slated to play six this fall, but starting in 2026, that number will drop.

Just like the NFL did, the league is shifting its focus toward meaningful, revenue-driving games. Let's be honest, fans care more about the regular season than watching prospects battle half-empty crowds in early September.

This move also helps fix a long-standing imbalance in divisional scheduling. With 8 teams per division, the current 26-game format creates odd gaps, some rivals only meet three times a year. Now, each team will play their division rivals four times, creating a fairer and more exciting rivalry schedule.

It also evens things out across the league:

4 games vs. each division rival

3 games vs. the rest of the conference

2 games vs. every opposite-conference team

For Dallas, that means even more matchups with Central Division teams like the Colorado Avalanche, Minnesota Wild, and St. Louis Blues.

That's fun, until you realize it also means two more brutal battles in what's arguably the NHL's most competitive division.

Still, as a fan, I'll always take more regular-season games over another preseason scrimmage.

How a New CBA Change Will Affect Stars Fans