The NHL 2025/26 season is officially underway, with three games kicking things off in style on the night of October 7.

Defending champions Florida Panthers battled past a resilient Chicago Blackhawks side in a narrow 3–2 win. Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Penguins silenced Madison Square Garden with a commanding 3–0 shutout over the New York Rangers, and the Colorado Avalanche dominated the Los Angeles Kings in a convincing 4–1 victory.

Florida Panthers 3–2 Chicago Blackhawks

The Panthers began their title defense with a gritty home win, holding off a late push from the Blackhawks to seal all two points in regulation. A strong second period made the difference, as Florida's depth once again proved key.

New York Rangers 0–3 Pittsburgh Penguins

It was a night to forget for the Rangers, who struggled to get anything going against a disciplined and aggressive Penguins outfit. Pittsburgh’s goaltending stood tall, earning an early-season shutout on the road.

Los Angeles Kings 1–4 Colorado Avalanche

The Avalanche wasted no time asserting themselves in the West, steamrolling the Kings with a dominant offensive performance.