Boston Bruins and Edmonton Oilers to Play NHL Games in Germany in 2027

The Boston Bruins and Edmonton Oilers will each play two regular-season games in Germany during the 2027-28 NHL season as part of a joint initiative by the league and the NHLPA to expand hockey’s international footprint, according to announcements made by the league on Thursday, August 20, 2026. The cross-border sporting expansion pairs high-profile North American franchises with key European markets.

Logistical Footprint and Venue Selection

According to the Associated Press, the Boston Bruins are scheduled to play their two regular-season matchups in Munich, while the Edmonton Oilers will travel to Cologne, the native city of Oilers star Leon Draisaitl. Opponents for both teams have not yet been determined. The international fixtures build upon prior league scheduling in the country, following the Buffalo Sabres and Los Angeles Kings playing in Berlin in 2011, and precede upcoming Global Series games featuring the Chicago Blackhawks and Ottawa Senators in Düsseldorf in December. The NHL and NHLPA remain committed to staging regular-season games in Germany for at least the next three seasons.

Commercial Strategy and European Engagement

The announcement in Munich featured a joint press conference with representatives from FC Bayern Munich and the National Hockey League, highlighting the crossover appeal between European football powerhouses and North American hockey brands. Daly noted that the league aims to deepen engagement amongst fans, partners, and local communities while creating significant opportunities to grow participation throughout the country.

Disclaimer: The views and cultural analyses presented in this article are for informational and entertainment purposes only. Information regarding legal disputes or financial data is based on available public records.