NHL Highlights: Upcoming Games and Olympic Roster Announcements

The NHL schedule for the week of January 5-11, 2026, features several exclusive matchups across major platforms including ESPN, Disney+, and Hulu. Notable games include the New Jersey Devils facing the New York Islanders on January 6 at 7:30 p.m. ET, followed by the Islanders taking on the Nashville Predators on January 8 at 8 p.m. ET. The week culminates with an Original Six matchup between the New York Rangers and the Boston Bruins on January 10 at 1 p.m. ET on ABC.

Three exclusive games this week on ABC, ESPN, ESPN+, Disney+ and HuluNHL On Tap: Zibanejad, Rangers host Mammoth after Winter Classic victoryNHL On Tap: Matthews looks to continue rolling when Maple Leafs host PanthersJones out ‘couple of weeks’ for Panthers, could return before Olympic breakThe Week Ahead: Jan 5-11ESPNRangers vs. Mammoth: Pregame Notes

The ESPN App will stream all NHL games, offering features such as integrated game stats and multiview options. This week, 44 out-of-market NHL Power Play games will also be available for streaming on ESPN+.

Three exclusive games this week on ABC, ESPN, ESPN+, Disney+ and HuluNHL On Tap: Zibanejad, Rangers host Mammoth after Winter Classic victoryNHL On Tap: Matthews looks to continue rolling when Maple Leafs host PanthersRangers vs. Mammoth: Pregame NotesThe Week Ahead: Jan 5-11Jones out ‘couple of weeks’ for Panthers, could return before Olympic breakLatvia roster for 2026 Winter Olympics includes Merzlikins, Silovs

As the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 approach, national teams are finalizing their rosters. The Czech Ice Hockey Association has announced goaltender Dan Vladar as one of three goaltenders for Team Czechia. Vladar, who has had a standout season with a 15-6-3 record, expressed pride in representing his country, recalling the historic 1998 team that won gold in Nagano.

Vladar Named to Team Czechia for the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026Team Czechia roster for 2026 Winter Olympics at a glanceLatvia roster for 2026 Winter Olympics includes Merzlikins, SilovsJones out ‘couple of weeks’ for Panthers, could return before Olympic breakWorld Junior Championship roundup: Sweden wins gold medal for 1st time since 2012NHL On Tap: Matthews looks to continue rolling when Maple Leafs host PanthersJon Cooper Walks Into 2026 with 1000 NHL Games and High Olympic ExpectationsNHL On Tap: Zibanejad, Rangers host Mammoth after Winter Classic victory

Team Canada has also revealed its roster, which includes notable players such as David Pastrnak of the Boston Bruins and Ondrej Palat of the New Jersey Devils. Both players bring significant international experience, with Pastrnak being a two-time medalist at the IIHF World Championships.

Team Czechia roster for 2026 Winter Olympics at a glance

Matthew Schaefer, the 2025 No. 1 draft pick, continues to impress with the New York Islanders, scoring three goals in two games since the Olympic roster announcement. He is currently third in rookie scoring with 28 points. Schaefer's performance is notable as he aims to become the first 18-year-old defenseman in NHL history to score in three consecutive games.

NHL On Tap: Matthews looks to continue rolling when Maple Leafs host PanthersRangers vs. Mammoth: Pregame NotesRed Wings assign Nate Danielson to Grand RapidsVladar Named to Team Czechia for the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026Team Czechia roster for 2026 Winter Olympics at a glanceNHL On Tap: Zibanejad, Rangers host Mammoth after Winter Classic victoryJones out ‘couple of weeks’ for Panthers, could return before Olympic breakJon Cooper Walks Into 2026 with 1000 NHL Games and High Olympic Expectations

In addition, the Philadelphia Flyers' Denver Barkey has made a smooth transition to the NHL, scoring his first goal against the Edmonton Oilers. Barkey's steady play has earned him praise from head coach Rick Tocchet, who emphasizes the importance of his all-around game.

A Natural Fit: Denver Barkey’s Early NHL Games Raise Meaningful Questions About His Future With Flyers

The NHL season is heating up as teams prepare for a busy January. The New York Rangers, who recently hosted Hockey Fights Cancer Night, are looking to capitalize on their recent momentum. Mika Zibanejad is on the verge of breaking the franchise record for power play goals, while Artemi Panarin leads the team in points.

Rangers vs. Mammoth: Pregame Notes

As the Olympic break approaches, teams like the Florida Panthers are managing player injuries, with defenseman Seth Jones expected to return before the break. The NHL's competitive landscape remains tight, with playoff positions still up for grabs as teams vie for crucial points in the standings.

Jones out ‘couple of weeks’ for Panthers, could return before Olympic break

The upcoming week in the NHL promises exciting matchups and significant developments as teams prepare for both league play and the Olympic Games. With rising stars and seasoned veterans alike making headlines, fans can expect a thrilling continuation of the season.

NHL On Tap: Zibanejad, Rangers host Mammoth after Winter Classic victory