NHL Fan Guide: Merch, How to Watch and More

Sports fans at Ice hockey game cheering after goal scored. — Read our NHL guide for everything you need to know this upcoming season, as a fan of the sport. Getty

Calling all hockey enthusiasts! The 2025-2026 NHL season is in full swing, as it officially commenced on Oct. 11. Whether you’re a fan of your home team, one specific player or simply the sport itself, there’s so much that goes into NHL fandom. That’s why we’ve created a guide to help you find everything from a new team hat to information on where to stream ESPN games without cable.

To get you started, we’ve listed our favorite merch including this mini pennant garland and a hockey whiskey stone set. And we’ve written out everything you need to know to enjoy your all-time favorite sport. That way, you can start the season off strong.

An NHL Fan’s Guide to the Greatest Game Ever

Top NHL Merch to Get the Season Started

Test Your Knowledge: MasterPieces’ NHL trivia game will really test your hockey knowledge. With 1,000 questions, there are several chances for you to boast your expertise. I believe in you.
Zero Pucks Given: Lavely’s ‘Zero Pucks Given’ socks make for an awesome gift for an avid fan… or you can keep them for yourself (because same!). Either way, it’s a hilariously icy ode to your favorite game.
Life-Like: When your 3D Ice Hockey Lamp is lit, it brings the sport to life in your home. Whether you put this in your fan cave or in your bedroom is entirely up to you.
Superfan: If you’re a fan of a specific team, these NHL hats are vintage-looking and super cool. As a Rangers fan, I’m personally drawn to this one, but the brand offers a variety of hats supporting more teams.
Hip Hop Hockey: As a play on the popular album by N.W.A., this ‘Straight Outta the Penalty Box’ shirt makes for the perfect pun. It’s definitely a conversation-starter.
Home Décor: Also perfect for your fan cave is the Mini Pennant League Set. It features every team in the league, so you can show show off your true love of the sport.
Bartending Goals: The Hockeywiz Whiskey Stone Set is the perfect gift for your whiskey-loving NHL fan. It features four pieces of stainless steel “hockey puck” ice cubes, hockey stick-shaped tongs and two elegant whiskey glasses. Cheers!

How to watch NHL games

There are so many ways to stream NHL games from the comfort of your own home, even if you don’t have cable. You can stream national games through ESPN on ESPN+ and Hulu. ABC broadcasts can also be streamed through the ESPN app. You can also stream TNT games through the TNT app or HBO Max.

For regional games, you can check local broadcast information by team page. You can also watch NHL Network throughout the season, outside of local markets, depending on the game. Meanwhile, Canadian viewers can resort to Sportsnet+ and the Sportsnet app; Prime Video; TVA; and NHL Centre Ice for fans outside the local market.

Traveling to NHL games

There are so many cool places you can travel to as a hockey fan! I personally have gone to NHL games in New York City at Madison Square Garden and the Barclays Center and at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena. Plan a trip to see your favorite team play in their home city, or look for the nearest arena when you’re traveling—just check sites like StubHub for the dates you’ll be going.

Even if you don’t catch a major league game, you might be able to find some minor league games that are just as fun!

How to host an NHL watch party

Hosting an NHL watch party is simple, as long as you have a working TV (I own and really like the 40-inch Vizio smart TV! But anything works). After creating your guest list and menu (might I suggest using DoorDash for convenience), you’ll invite everyone over a little before the game to give time for everyone to arrive. Once everyone is settled with drinks and a comfortable place to sit, you can enjoy the game together! Consider setting up a pool to raise the stakes. And prepare for an ultra fun night with friends.

FAQs

How can I get into watching hockey?

Watching hockey is incredibly enjoyable, especially when you’re with a dynamic group of people! Before you go, try reading up on the rules. Then, gather a few fanatic friends to watch it at your favorite sports bar or at home. Your buddies’ appreciation will be contagious—and their enthusiasm will undoubtedly make it more fun!

Where are the best places to travel to see hockey games?

Most major cities have a major league hockey team, so wherever you want to go, check StubHub to see if there are available tickets! The season lasts through June, so you have quite a bit of time to plan your next trip to see a hockey game IRL.

What are some essentials to planning the ultimate NHL watch party?

If you’re planning an NHL watch party, you’ll need the basics: good food and drinks, as well as access to a working TV. Once you have that figured out, create an invite list and get the party started.

Where can I stream NHL games?