Preseason action starts with a tight Canadiens slate
The end of summer brings hockey back into focus, and Montreal fans have plenty to track before the regular season begins. The Canadiens have set a preseason schedule that packs five games into just three dates, making September feel especially busy.
The first date to circle is September 19, when split-squad lineups meet the Toronto Maple Leafs at the same time in Montreal and Toronto. Two days later, the team heads to Trois-Rivières to face the Ottawa Senators at Colisée Vidéotron as part of a Kraft Hockeyville celebration, giving local supporters a rare chance to watch the club up close.
The exhibition schedule wraps up on September 26 with another split-squad matchup against Ottawa.
Home-game tickets have been available since August 5, so fans have had ample time to lock in plans.
What changes in the league this season
The NHL is also entering a busier phase on the calendar. Every club will now play 84 regular-season games instead of the previous total, raising the league-wide schedule to 1,344 games.
The regular season is set to finish on April 16, which means a slightly longer grind for teams and a denser slate for fans to follow.
| Key Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Canadiens preseason games | 5 games across 3 dates |
| First preseason date | September 19 vs. Toronto |
| Special road stop | September 21 in Trois-Rivières vs. Ottawa |
| Regular-season length | 84 games per team |
| Season finale | April 16 |
Why September matters for Quebec hockey
September always carries a sense of anticipation, but this year brings even more intrigue. A busier schedule, a strong Canadiens storyline, and a marquee stop in Trois-Rivières give fans across the province several reasons to pay attention right away.
- The Canadiens’ preseason is short, concentrated, and easy to follow.
- The Kraft Hockeyville event adds a community-focused moment to the calendar.
- The expanded 84-game schedule stretches the season into mid-April.
What to watch before opening night
The next few weeks will set the tone for what comes after. Coaches will use the exhibition games to sort out line combinations, evaluate depth, and prepare for a longer campaign.
For fans, that means September is not just a warmup month. It is the first real sign that another NHL season is ready to begin.
