How to Watch the 2025-26 NHL Season Without Cable

For sports enthusiasts, ditching cable can be quite a hurdle, especially for hockey fans. While NFL games are mostly accessible through over-the-air channels in major U.S. cities, NHL coverage still relies heavily on cable and subscription streaming services.

In the 2025-26 season, a total of 172 regular-season games will be broadcast nationally across ABC, ESPN, ESPN+, Hulu, and TNT, with only ABC’s games available over the air. ESPN’s games are streamed via its direct-to-consumer app, and TNT’s coverage will stream on HBO Max. During the Stanley Cup Final, ABC holds exclusive rights in even-numbered years like 2026, meaning the entire series will be available over the air (simulcast on ESPN). However, following your local team still requires access to regional or in-market broadcasters, which vary by team.

That’s a challenging but achievable goal. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you access every game important to you, no matter your setup.

Watch hockey without cable

Many streaming platforms advertise ABC as part of their packages, but availability depends on your location—most platforms provide a zip code check for availability. If ABC isn’t accessible in your area, an over-the-air antenna can help you tune into your local ABC station. Consult our guide on the best TV antennas for cord-cutters to find the right option.

Sling TV

Sling TV offers access to ESPN and TNT, which you can bundle in the Sling Orange package for $45.99 monthly. Enhance your hockey viewing with the NHL Network through the Sports Extra add-on for an extra $11 per month.

Sling often provides discounts on devices with prepaid plans. Promotions change regularly, but you can generally expect bundle deals with streaming devices or introductory rates when signing up.

DirecTV Stream

DirecTV Stream includes ABC, ESPN, and TNT in its Entertainment plan for $84.99 monthly. To get NHL Network, you can upgrade to the Ultimate plan at $119.99 per month. The service frequently runs promotional offers—checking current discounts before subscribing is recommended.

This service is also ideal for tuning into your local team’s games. Unlike other streaming options that have reduced regional sports networks, DirecTV Stream offers a full suite, including NBC Sports regional channels, Mid-Atlantic Sports Network, NEE Sports Network, YES Network, and Spectrum SportsNet LA. It also includes ESPN, FS1, TBS, and MLB Network.

FuboTV

FuboTV provides ABC and ESPN with its $84.99-per-month Pro package. It includes unlimited Cloud DVR storage, allowing you to record games so you never miss out. To access the NHL Network, opt for the Sports Lite add-on for $10.99 monthly.

Hulu

Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV

Both Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV offer live streaming channels at a flat monthly rate, including ABC, ESPN, and TNT. Hulu + Live TV is priced at $82.99 with ads (rising to $89.99 on October 21) or $95.99 without ads (or $99.99 after October 21). It also bundles Disney+ and ESPN+. YouTube TV charges $82.99 per month and provides unlimited DVR storage, making it easy to record games and watch later.

ESPN Streaming Service

Starting August 2025, ESPN launched a new direct-to-consumer service offering out-of-market NHL games. The Select tier (similar to ESPN+), costs $11.99 per month and includes live out-of-market games, on-demand replays, and exclusive NHL content. For access to ESPN’s linear channels and ABC simulcasts, the Unlimited tier is available for $29.99 a month. Bundling these subscriptions with Hulu and Disney+ is also an option.

Absolute coverage of hockey action

While streaming hockey still involves some juggling, the options are better than ever. With national games distributed across major streaming platforms and all out-of-market games available online, NHL fans no longer need a cable subscription to follow the action. Though the landscape will continue to evolve, the trend for cord-cutters is clearly moving toward more accessible and flexible options.