NHL Global Series Returns to Europe with 2024 Games in Finland and Germany

NHL Announces European Games for Fall 2024

According to Главком: The National Hockey League (NHL) has revealed plans for its Global Series, scheduling regular-season games in Finland and Germany for autumn 2024. These events are part of the league's ongoing effort to grow the sport internationally. In Finland, the Carolina Hurricanes and Seattle Kraken will face off in two contests at Helsinki Arena on November 12 and 14.

The Carolina roster features Finnish center Sebastian Aho and center Jesperi Kotkaniemi, while Seattle's lineup includes Finnish wingers Kaapo Kakko, Eeli Tolvanen, and Jani Nyman. This marks the first time these specific clubs will play in Finland since the state's last NHL visit in 2024, when the Florida Panthers and Minnesota Wild competed in Tampere.

Germany to Host December Matchups

Additionally, the NHL will stage games in Germany, where the Ottawa Senators and Chicago Blackhawks will meet in Düsseldorf on December 18 and 20. The league's European tours have become a staple, following last year's Global Series in Stockholm, Sweden, which featured games between the Nashville Predators and Pittsburgh Penguins.

The tradition of NHL teams traveling to Europe dates back to 1938, with regular visits since then forming a key part of the sport's international calendar. The announced games in Finland and Germany underscore the NHL's commitment to expanding its fanbase beyond North America and strengthening global hockey ties. The Global Series allows European fans to experience live NHL action on their home continent, helping to popularize the sport in the region and reflecting the continent's growing passion for hockey.