Changes coming to NHL preseason? Multiple injuries lead to calls for fewer games

While NHL regulars typically play in only around half of those games, prospects or players on PTOs (professional tryouts) generally take the ice for most games while attempting to earn a spot on the roster. Many games also include rosters of heavy-hitting AHL players who are using these preseason games to prepare for their own league’s season.

Additionally, to create less travel, teams generally play opponents that are close to them, including top rivals. These combinations can lead to heavy emotions and fireworks, such as this week's fights between in-state rivals Tampa Bay Lightning and Florida Panthers.

Not everyone agrees with stars sitting out preseason games, though. According to Sportsnet’s Mark Spector, Connor McDavid recently requested to play the Edmonton Oilers’ last three preseason games in order to feel game-ready by the start of the regular season. There are other NHLers who likely feel a similar way and are using these games as a tune up before the season starts. 

Additionally, many coaches use this time to figure out line combinations, defense pairings, and goaltending options, as well as survey which prospects or young players can make the jump to the big leagues. There’s certainly an importance to the preseason. Although players are training in the summer harder than ever, there’s still a difference between a summer league skate and an NHL game. 

Training camp provides an important start to the hockey season, but nothing will showcase a player better than putting them in the most realistic game-like situation. Even without playing in a preseason game, injuries can happen during offseason training or team practice. For now, NHL clubs will remain at the minimum of six games.

With the most recent CBA set to expire in 2026 — and talks set to begin between the NHL and NHLPA next year — look for the preseason to be thoroughly examined in the months ahead. Until then, fans will just have to cross their fingers that their favorite players don’t get injured before the season even starts.