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The NHL announced on Thursday that the Edmonton Oilers and Boston Bruins are scheduled to play two regular-season matchups each in Germany next year, reflecting joint efforts by the league and the NHLPA to expand the sport’s footprint in the nation.
Cologne, the home city of Leon Draisaitl, will host the Oilers for two games during the 2027-28 NHL season, whereas the Bruins will compete in a pair of matches in Munich.
The opposing teams for these German fixtures are still to be announced.
“These matchups mark a crucial milestone in our dedication to expanding the sport within Germany,” stated Bill Daly, the NHL’s deputy commissioner.
“Introducing additional NHL games to one of the most vibrant hockey markets in Europe allows us to strengthen ties with our supporters, sponsors, and regional communities, while simultaneously opening up a major path to advance the sport nationwide.”
Prior plans had already locked in the Ottawa Senators and Chicago Blackhawks for two matches in Dusseldorf this coming December.
These Global Series events will be only the second and third times the league has hosted regular-season matches in Germany, following the 2011 clash in Berlin between the Los Angeles Kings and Buffalo Sabres.
Further events are on the horizon, with both the NHL and NHLPA pledging to host regular-season matchups in Germany for a minimum of the next three seasons.
