Full Breakdown
NHL Global Series to Feature Carolina Hurricanes and Seattle Kraken in Finland
3/24/2026, 7:00:13 AM
Overview of the 2026 NHL Global Series
The National Hockey League (NHL) and the National Hockey League Players’ Association (NHLPA), in collaboration with Live Nation, have announced the 2026 NHL Global Series Finland. This event will feature two regular-season games between the Carolina Hurricanes and the Seattle Kraken at Veikkaus Arena in Helsinki, scheduled for November 12 and November 14, 2026. This series marks the NHL's continued commitment to expanding its reach in Europe, rewarding the passionate fanbase across the continent.
Historical Context of NHL Games in Finland
The 2026 Global Series will be significant as it marks the NHL's return to Helsinki for the first time since the Florida Panthers and Winnipeg Jets faced off in 2018. Historically, Finland has hosted 11 of the 48 regular-season NHL games played outside North America, with seven of those in Helsinki. The Hurricanes previously played in Finland during the 2010 Premiere Series against the Minnesota Wild, winning both games.
Key Players and Their Perspectives
The series will see Carolina's Sebastian Aho and Jesperi Kotkaniemi return to their homeland. Aho, who leads the Hurricanes in points this season, expressed excitement about playing in Finland, emphasizing the importance of growing the sport among young fans. "It's super-exciting to get to play in Finland," Aho stated, reflecting on his childhood experience watching NHL games in his home country. Kotkaniemi echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the cultural significance of hockey in Finland.
Seattle will also feature Finnish players, including Kaapo Kakko, Eeli Tolvanen, and Jani Nyman. Kakko noted the challenge of following NHL games in Finland due to time differences but emphasized the strong hockey culture. Tolvanen expressed enthusiasm about playing in front of family and friends, stating, "It’s going to be a really cool thing, being able to play an NHL game in Finland."
Official Statements and Responses
The NHL's initiative to host games in Europe is part of a broader strategy to engage international audiences. The league has been playing regular-season games in Europe for five consecutive seasons, with the 2026 series in Finland and Germany furthering this goal. The NHL aims to showcase its star players and enhance the visibility of the sport globally.
Criticism and Opposition
While the NHL's efforts to expand its international presence have been largely welcomed, some critics argue that the focus on international games may detract from the local fan experience in North America. Concerns have been raised about the potential impact on scheduling and travel for teams and players.
What's Next
Tickets for the 2026 NHL Global Series games will go on sale on March 31, 2026. Additional details regarding fan tour packages, including airfare, accommodations, and excursions, will be released in the coming months. The NHL continues to explore opportunities for future international games, including a series in Germany featuring the Chicago Blackhawks and Ottawa Senators.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It's super-exciting to get to play in Finland,” — Sebastian Aho, Forward, Carolina Hurricanes
- “It’s going to be a really cool thing, being able to play an NHL game in Finland,” — Eeli Tolvanen, Forward, Seattle Kraken
- “Hockey is big over there; they love hockey over there.” — Kaapo Kakko, Forward, Seattle Kraken
- “Everyone is really excited about it.” — Jani Nyman, Forward, Seattle Kraken
