NEW YORK – The Boston Bruins and Edmonton Oilers are set to make history as they prepare to play two regular-season games in Germany during the 2027-28 NHL season. This initiative is part of the NHL and NHL Players’ Association’s ongoing commitment to expand the reach of hockey in Europe, particularly in Germany, a country that is rapidly emerging as a vibrant hockey market.
The Bruins will take to the ice in Munich, while the Oilers will play in Cologne, the hometown of superstar Leon Draisaitl. The opponents for these matchups have yet to be announced, but the excitement surrounding the games is already palpable among fans and players alike.
NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly expressed the league’s enthusiasm about this initiative. “These events represent an important step in our commitment to grow the game in Germany. By bringing more NHL games to one of Europe’s most dynamic hockey markets, we hope to continue to deepen engagement amongst our fans, partners, and local communities, while at the same time creating a significant opportunity to grow the game throughout the country,” he stated.
This move builds on previous efforts to introduce the NHL to German audiences. The Chicago Blackhawks and Ottawa Senators are already scheduled to play two games in Düsseldorf this December, marking the league’s second and third regular-season games staged in Germany. The first occurred back in 2011 when the Buffalo Sabres faced the Los Angeles Kings in Berlin.
Looking to the future, the NHL and NHLPA are committed to continuing this trend, with plans to bring regular-season games to Germany for at least the next three seasons. This ongoing initiative not only showcases the talent of the NHL’s best players but also fosters a deeper connection with European fans, inspiring the next generation of hockey players and enthusiasts.
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