The NHL season is just around the corner, and excitement is building as the league announced its 2026-27 regular season schedule on Thursday. The Nashville Predators retooled their roster this offseason under new general manager Chris MacFarland and hope to end a two-year playoff drought with a strong season under fourth-year head coach Andrew Brunette. The Predators play a grueling schedule to kick off the season; 23 of their 28 opponents to open the season made the NHL playoffs in 2026. The early-season matchups provide ample opportunity to build confidence, but could create complications for a roster needing to gel. Season opener vs. Minnesota Wild - Thursday, Oct. 1 - 7 p.m. CTFirst matchup vs. Carolina Hurricanes - Tuesday, Nov. 3 - 7 p.m. CTFirst matchup vs. Chicago Blackhawks - Thursday, Dec. 3 - 7 p.m. CTNew Year's Day vs. Florida Panthers - Friday, Jan. 1 - 1 p.m. CTSeason Finale vs. Dallas Stars - Saturday, April 10 - 5 p.m. CT Follow us on Twitter/X, Facebook, YouTube, Threads, Bluesky and Instagram for the latest news.