The New York Rangers face off against the Florida Panthers in the 2026 NHL Winter Classic at LoanDepot Park in Miami, Florida. The game, set for January 2, 2026, at 8 p.m. ET, marks the first outdoor NHL game in Florida, with the retractable roof of the stadium being opened shortly before the match begins. Fans can catch the game on TNT and truTV, or stream it live via DIRECTV, Sling, or HBO Max.
In preparation for the event, the NHL has installed custom refrigeration units to maintain the ice surface, taking advantage of a rare cold snap in Miami. This outdoor spectacle is part of a broader effort to expand hockey’s popularity in the Sunshine State, with a second outdoor game scheduled for February 1, 2026, featuring the Tampa Bay Lightning against the Boston Bruins.
Notably absent from the Panthers’ lineup will be Matthew Tkachuk, who is recovering from surgery. The Rangers boast a perfect 5-0-0 record in outdoor games, adding an extra layer of excitement to this historic event.
