The 2027 NHL Global Series will feature the Boston Bruins and the Edmonton Oilers, marking the league's return to Germany for regular-season games. Munich and Cologne will host these games, with the Bruins playing in Munich—home to their newly acquired player JJ Peterka—and the Oilers in Cologne, the hometown of superstar Leon Draisaitl. This venture highlights the NHL's effort to expand its international presence, bringing high-stakes games to German fans. Matchups and specific game times will be revealed during the 2026-27 season, while upcoming games in the NHL Global Series Germany will occur in December 2026.

By the Numbers
  • This will be the NHL's fourth to seventh games played in Germany, starting from the first on October 8, 2011.
  • The 2026 NHL Global Series in Germany features two games between the Ottawa Senators and Chicago Blackhawks on December 18 and 20, 2026.
Yes, But

The move to Germany indicates an effort to cater to international markets, yet it raises questions about the logistics and fan engagement of teams playing overseas in terms of scheduling and travel fatigue.

State of Play
  • The Bruins will field a roster with notable German players, including Marco Sturm, the first German head coach in the NHL.
  • The Oilers' last international game was in Sweden in 2018; now, they return for another global showcase.
What's Next

As teams prepare for the Global Series, anticipation will build around the scheduled matchups and potential travel logistics impacting both teams leading into the series. Fans await the announcement of opponents and game dates, with an eye on ticket availability and promotional events.

Bottom Line

The NHL's commitment to international games signifies a strategic push to grow its fan base outside North America, pairing international exposure with community engagement in countries like Germany. The Bruins and Oilers' participation will be pivotal in shaping the league's global brand image.