Oilers to begin NHL season in September for first time in franchise history
Edmonton will host the Vancouver Canucks on September 29 for the regular season opener, marking the first time the team has started play in September.
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The Edmonton Oilers will kick off the 2026-27 regular season at home against the Vancouver Canucks on Tuesday, September 29, marking the first time in franchise history the team has opened play in September.
The earlier start is part of the NHL's expansion to an 84-game schedule. The September 29 opener also serves as the league's official opening night across all franchises. After the home opener, the Oilers will travel to Vancouver for the Canucks' home opener on October 1.
The new schedule format will reduce preseason games. The Oilers played seven preseason games last season but will only play four this September. This will be a critical day for the franchise after a short-lived playoff run in spring 2026. The season opener will also mark the start of the Mike Babcock era for Edmonton — a coaching hire that drew significant controversy last month.
The full NHL season schedule is set to be released Thursday, July 16. Fans interested in home opener tickets can text 587-855-5645 to be alerted when they go on sale later this summer.
The facts
When is the Edmonton Oilers' 2026-27 season opener?
The Edmonton Oilers' 2026-27 regular season opener is on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at home against the Vancouver Canucks.
Why are the Oilers starting in September for the first time?
The earlier start is part of the NHL's expansion to an 84-game schedule. The September 29 opener also serves as the league's official opening night across all franchises.
How many preseason games will the Oilers play this September?
The Edmonton Oilers will play four preseason games in September 2026, down from seven preseason games last season.
Who is the new coach for the Oilers?
Mike Babcock is the new coach for the Edmonton Oilers, marking the start of his era with the franchise.
