NHL Invades Germany: Bruins, Oilers Locked for 2028 Global Series
NHL Brings More Hockey Excitement to Germany in 2027-28!
What’s Happening?
The National Hockey League (NHL) just announced something super cool: four NHL teams will play regular-season games in Germany during the 2027-28 season! This is part of a big plan to help more people in Germany fall in love with hockey.
Which Teams Are Going Where?
Here’s the breakdown of who’s playing where:
Munich Welcomes the Boston Bruins
- Team: Boston Bruins
- City: Munich
- Games: 2 regular-season games
- Cool Fact: Munich is a huge sports city with passionate fans!
Cologne Gets a Homecoming for Leon Draisaitl
- Team: Edmonton Oilers
- City: Cologne
- Games: 2 regular-season games
- Special Connection: This is Leon Draisaitl’s hometown! He’s a superstar player for the Oilers and one of the best German players ever.
Already on the Calendar: December Games in Düsseldorf
Before the 2027-28 season even starts, two other teams are heading to Germany:
- Chicago Blackhawks vs Ottawa Senators
- Location: Düsseldorf
- Time: December (this year!)
- Games: 2 regular-season games
Why Is This a Big Deal?
IMPORTANT POINT: This isn’t just a one-time thing! The NHL and the Players’ Association (NHLPA) have committed to bringing regular-season games to Germany for at least the next three seasons. That means more hockey, more often, for German fans!
The History So Far
- 2011: Buffalo Sabres vs Los Angeles Kings played in Berlin (first NHL games in Germany)
- 2024: Blackhawks vs Senators in Düsseldorf (second & third games)
- 2027-28: Bruins in Munich + Oilers in Cologne (games 4, 5, 6, & 7!)
What Does "Regular-Season Game" Mean?
Don’t worry if you’re new to hockey! Here’s the simple version:
- Regular-season games = The games that count for real in the standings
- Not exhibition/preseason games = These aren’t just practice matches
- Teams play their best = Players compete hard because wins/losses matter for playoffs
- Fans see the real deal = You get authentic NHL action, not watered-down versions
How This Helps Grow Hockey in Germany
| Benefit | What It Means |
|---|---|
| More Fans | Kids see NHL stars live → want to play hockey |
| Better Players | More interest → better youth programs → future NHL stars |
| Local Economy | Hotels, restaurants, shops get busy during game weekends |
| Global Connection | German fans feel part of the worldwide NHL family |
| Inspiration | Seeing heroes like Draisaitl at home inspires the next generation |
Step-by-Step: What Happens Next?
- League announces schedule (coming later)
- Opponents get chosen for each German game
- Tickets go on sale (usually months before)
- Teams travel to Germany (usually a week before games)
- Community events happen (school visits, youth clinics, fan fests)
- Game days arrive!
- Repeat for next seasons (at least through 2029-30)
Meet the German Superstar: Leon Draisaitl
Since the Oilers are playing in his hometown of Cologne, let’s talk about why Leon Draisaitl is such a big deal:
- Born in Cologne, Germany
- Superstar center for Edmonton Oilers
- Won the Hart Trophy (MVP of the entire NHL!) in 2020
- Multiple-time All-Star (best players showcase)
- Role model for every young German hockey player
- Playing in front of family & friends = extra special!
Summary
The NHL is serious about growing hockey in Germany! With four teams playing real, meaningful games across three German cities (Munich, Cologne, Düsseldorf) — and a commitment for at least three years — German fans get an amazing front-row seat to the world’s best hockey. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just curious, these games are the perfect chance to experience NHL excitement live!
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
Q: Do I need to know hockey rules to enjoy the games?
A: Not at all! The atmosphere is electric, the speed is incredible, and big screens explain penalties. Plus, cheering with thousands of fans is fun no matter what!
Q: How can I get tickets?
A: Watch the NHL website and team social media accounts. Tickets usually go on sale several months before games. Sign up for team newsletters for early access!
Q: Will the games be on TV in Germany?
A: Absolutely! German broadcasters (like ProSiebenMaxx, Sport1, or streaming services) typically show NHL games, especially these special events.
Q: Are there events for kids and families?
A: Yes! NHL Global Series always includes youth hockey clinics, player meet-and-greets, fan festivals, and school visits. Great for the whole family!
Q: Why Germany? Why now?
A: Germany has a growing hockey culture, produces NHL talent (like Draisaitl, Seider, Stützle), has modern arenas, and passionate sports fans. The NHL sees huge potential here!