NHL Preseason Lineups Announced for Opening Games

EDMONTON, Alberta — The NHL kicks off its 2025-26 season tonight with several teams finalizing their lineups ahead of the opening games. Fans can expect an exciting start as teams prepare to compete for the Stanley Cup.

The Pittsburgh Penguins will face the New York Islanders in their home opener after defeating the New York Rangers 3-0 on Tuesday. Sidney Crosby leads the Penguins’ top line, centered by Ville Koivunen and Rickard Rakell. Koivunen aims to make a strong impact in his second NHL game while Crosby looks to capitalize on the successful start of the season.

“We need our top line to step up,” Penguins Coach Mike Sullivan said. “It’s important for their confidence moving forward.”

The Islanders are looking to bounce back after a challenging previous season. The top line features Jonathan Drouin, Bo Horvat, and Emil Heineman. The addition of Drouin is expected to provide a boost for the Islanders’ offense.

Meanwhile, the Edmonton Oilers begin their season against their rival Calgary Flames, using a revamped lineup. Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl return to lead the Oilers’ top line. Coach Kris Knoblauch expressed optimism about his team’s preparation during training camp.

“We’ve worked hard in the preseason, and I believe in this group,” Knoblauch said. “We’re ready for this challenge.”

New Oilers’ forward Matt Savoie is expected to enhance the lineup, playing alongside Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Andrew Mangiapane. Savoie performed well during the preseason and now steps into a crucial role.

In other notable matchups, the Chicago Blackhawks project Colton Dach, Connor Bedard, and Andre Burakovsky on their top line against the Boston Bruins. Blackhawks Coach Luke Richardson mentioned adjustments to the lineup, highlighting Dach’s movement to the first line.

The game features many rookies making their NHL debuts, including the Islanders’ Matthew Schaefer and the Penguins’ Benjamin Kindel.

As the puck drops for the first games of the new season, fans across the league have high hopes for their favorite teams.