Who is playing in the 2026 NHL Winter Classic? Who are the top players?
The 2026 Winter Classic will feature the Florida Panthers and New York Rangers. The defending Stanley Cup champion Panthers are the home team.
As of the end of 29 December 2025, the Panthers sit in the second Wild Card spot in the Eastern Conference and fourth in the Atlantic Division on 44 points (21–15–2).
The Rangers are fourth in the Eastern Wild Card race and fifth in the Metropolitan Division on 43 points (19–17–5).
The Panthers’ top scorer is currently veteran Brad Marchand (22 goals – 22 assists — 44 points), followed right behind by fellow Canadian Sam Reinhart (21-21—42).
Meanwhile, the Rangers have been a little lacking in the goalscoring department this season. They are led by Artemi Panarin (14-25—39) in goals, assists, and points.
How can I watch the 2026 NHL Winter Classic live?
The NHL Winter Classic will be shown by the various NHL rights-holders around the world.
In the United States, this will be on TNT (NHL on TNT) and TruTV, with streaming on HBO MAX.
In Canada, the game will be shown on Sportsnet (in English) and TVA Sports (in French).
Globally, the game may be available on the NHL’s own NHL.TV platform subject to geographical blackouts. Other global rights-holders may also broadcast the game.