Under Cassidy, the Golden Knights had accustomed to a brand of hockey that led them to a Stanley Cup conquest in 2023. However, the lack of success in the 2025-26 NHL campaign has left them with no choice but to veer in a different direction before it was too late.

With Tortorella, the Golden Knights will embrace a completely different playing style. “Torts” is not exactly known around the NHL for a flashy brand of hockey. Still, with Vegas sitting in a playoff spot, Tortorella’s preaching of a gritty, hard-nosed style may be just what the doctor ordered.

Is Tortorella a good match for Vegas?

At first glance, seeing Tortorella behind the home bench at T-Mobile Arena may come as a shock. Based on the reaction on social media, most fans have been caught by surprise by the recent hiring. Two things can be true at the same time: Tortorella’s style might pay off in the postseason, but the Knights’ roster may not be exactly tailored to the coach’s preferences.

Still, his dump-and-chase strategy, as well as his tough-love philosophy, may help the Golden Knights crawl out of the hole they find themselves in. However, a quick look at the roster in Sin City shows that many players in town aren’t exactly the kind of talents that shine brightest in Tortorella’s system. Namely? Mitch Marner.

Marner and Tortorella could be a lethal cocktail

Marner’s lack of physicality and playoff production has hindered his overall legacy in the NHL. Under Tortorella, Marner will be in for a rude awakening. If he doesn’t step out of his comfort zone and put himself in uncomfortable positions, “Torts” won’t shy away from calling him out when things go south.

The Golden Knights place their bet

All in all, it seems Vegas has made a last-ditch effort to salvage its season. Will it pay off? Only time will tell, but with Tortorella in town, the entertainment is assured. They say the house always wins, but it seems the Golden Knights are no longer playing with house money. It’s that time of the season in the NHL, and Vegas is all in.

“The Senators’ penalty will now involve the forfeiture of their first round pick in 2026 in favor of the right instead to pick 32nd overall in the 2026 NHL Draft (the last pick in the first round),” the NHL’s official statement read.

Moreover, the league announced the Senators aren’t allowed to trade or transfer their first-round selection (32nd overall) in 2026. If the Senators miss the postseason, they will enter the NHL Draft Lottery but cannot win the first overall pick—also known as “the Gavin McKenna sweepstakes”.

Thus, the league will put Ottawa through some sort of torture. The Sens can watch the lottery, but if their name winds up in first place, a re-draw will occur. In addition to this decision, Ottawa must pay a fine of $1 million (CDN). This sum translates to roughly $734,600 USD. That’s near the neighborhood of a league-minimum, two-way contract in the NHL ($775,000).

The story behind Senators’ sanction

To fully understand the latest announcement from the NHL, we must go back in time. In July 2021, the Senators sent Dadonov to the Golden Knights in a trade that involved Nick Holden and a third-round pick in the 2022 Entry Draft. However, Ottawa left a key detail out of the conversation with Las Vegas: Dadonov’s contract included a no-trade clause.

The organization in Sin City didn’t learn that until March 2022, when the Knights agreed to trade Dadonov to the Ducks. Little did they know, the Russian winger had vetoed Anaheim. As a result, the trade fell through. Vegas and its front office were the laughingstock of the league for a while after the failed deal.

Immediately after, the Knights claimed the Sens had kept them out of the loop, and an investigation was launched. The result? The original sanction stated that Ottawa was to forfeit one of its first-round picks in 2024, 2025, or 2026. Now that’s changed, and the Senators will be allowed to select in the first round, but will do so in last place.

As puck drop approaches, many fans are wondering about the availability of Pittsburgh’s captain. All eyes are on Sidney Crosby, the longtime face of the Penguins and one of the league’s most consistent stars.

With the Penguins looking to stay competitive in the standings and the Golden Knights defending home ice in Las Vegas, tonight’s game carries added intrigue. Apparently, the captain will not be on the ice once again.

Why will Sidney Crosby not play?

Sidney Crosby will not play because he is still recovering from a lower-body injury that placed him on injured reserve. The injury requires several weeks of recovery, which is why the team has been cautious with his return.

Because of the nature of it and the physical demands of the NHL season, Pittsburgh’s medical staff decided that he should focus on rehabilitation instead of returning too early. The team wants to ensure the veteran center regains full strength before stepping back into competitive games.

When will Sidney Crosby return to play?

Sidney Crosby could return to the Pittsburgh Penguins lineup sometime in mid-to-late March 2026, although the team has not confirmed an exact date. Early projections suggested a potential return around March 21 if his recovery continues to progress as expected.

There have been encouraging signs recently. He has already returned to the ice for practice sessions and has been skating with the team in a limited capacity, suggesting that his comeback may not be far away.

What happened to Sidney Crosby?

Sidney Crosby suffered a lower-body injury during the 2026 Winter Olympics while playing for Team Canada. The injury occurred on February 18 during Canada’s quarterfinal game against Czechia.

During that game, his leg bent awkwardly after contact with Radko Gudas, forcing him to leave the matchup and preventing him from continuing in the tournament. After the Olympics concluded, he returned home for evaluation.

The setback has kept him out of several NHL games as the Penguins navigate an important stretch of the season. While the team has remained competitive, Pittsburgh continues to wait for its captain to return.

Fortunately for Marner, if things heat up, he might get some help from the latest addition to the squad, Rasmus Andersson. Traded from the Calgary Flames, the star defenseman has yet to make his NHL season debut with the Golden Knights. According to reports, Andersson could make his first appearance as a Golden Knight in Toronto.

“Bruce Cassidy says Rasmus Andersson has been dealing with some immigration issues,” as reported by Sportsnet’s Anna Dua. “He will not play in Boston (January 22), unclear if he will be able to play against the Maple Leafs (Jan. 23) but is a possibility since he’s in Canada.“

Thus, as Marner steps out of the visiting tunnel at Scotiabank Arena for the first time in his career, he’ll be like a kid showing off his newest toy, ready to display to Leafs fans the latest weapon Vegas has added.

Calm before the storm

This reunion has been a long time coming. Fans have been building in anticipation as the hometown kid once poised to lead Toronto back to the promised land returns as an adult—one who made it clear last summer he wanted nothing more to do with his childhood team.

At some point in everyone’s life, it’s time to move on from home. Marner, however, chose to do so in dramatic fashion, with less-than-ideal timing. Leafs fans haven’t forgotten the date: January 23—the only night they’ll get to see Marner back in The Six and remind him how the city feels about his exit.

“I’m sure it’s going to be… loud,” Maple Leafs forward Scott Laughton stated, hinting at what everybody in the building knows will go down when Marner and the Golden Knights come out of the tunnel on Friday night.

Nobody wants to miss Marner’s return

As if the buzz around the matchup weren’t telling enough, a quick look at ticket prices tells the whole story. Scotiabank Arena is already sold out, with resale prices for nosebleed seats averaging $180–$200 (U.S. dollars).

For better or worse, Marner’s return to Toronto is set to define a before and after. It will be a game fans talk about for years. That is saying a lot considering it’s just a mid-January, cross-conference matchup in the NHL regular season.

Bedard and the Blackhawks are holding their ground against some of the best teams in the NHL. After years of being a walk in the park for opponents, simply being competitive is a positive sign for fans in Chicago. However, the Hawks would still like to close out some of the tight games they’ve recently let slip away.

“[We] try to work for each other, and [when] it doesn’t end up working out, it sucks,” Nazar stated, via The Chicago Sun-Times. “There’s spurts in the game where we looked really good and we were outplaying them. [It’s about] just continuing to get rid of those small little mishaps.”

Bedard keeps his red-hot form

Following his four-point outing against the Anaheim Ducks, the Golden Knights knew they couldn’t let Bedard out of their sights. Still, there was nothing that could’ve been done to prevent him from scoring an absolute beauty on Carter Hart—who made his season debut and first start since January 2024.

With his goal against Vegas, Bedard found the back of the net for the 17th time in the 2025-26 NHL season. With over 50 games left in the campaign, the former first overall pick is now six goals away from matching his best goal mark in a season (23). So far in the campaign, Bedard registers 38 points (17G, 21A).

To put the cherry on top on another sensational outing in the season, Bedard scored a nifty goal in the shootout round. However — as it’s been a common theme all year long — it wasn’t enough as Chicago fell once again.

Confident Bedard is putting league on notice

Needless to say, Bedard is playing the best hockey of his NHL career. After enduring a sophomore slump during the 2024–25 season, the North Vancouver native has now hit the ground running. It has become clear as day just how lethal Bedard can be when his confidence is high.

Credit should also go to Jeff Blashill, who has changed the tune in Chicago. Though the results aren’t fully there yet, the winds of change can be felt in the Windy City, and Blashill has helped Bedard unlock his potential — exactly what the Hawks hoped to see from their franchise wonderkid.

In the century-long history, hoisting the Stanley Cup is the ultimate prize, the gold standard against which all 32 franchises are measured. While teams boast deep traditions and countless playoff runs, the narrative is different for others.

The NHL‘s expansion era, which began in the late 1960s and continued well into the 21st century, brought the excitement of professional hockey to new markets, spreading the wealth of talent and fan engagement. However, the introduction of fresh clubs also meant starting from scratch.

This disparity creates a compelling backdrop for examining the league’s competitive balance. While perennial contenders often overshadow the less successful teams, it is the franchises with the scarcest Final appearances that tell an equally dramatic tale of organizational growing pains.

Nashville Predators | 1 Stanley Cup Final appearance

Since joining the NHL in 1998, the Nashville Predators have been perennial playoff contenders—but the Stanley Cup Final has eluded them nearly their entire existence. Their lone trip to the Final came in the 2016–17 season, a breakthrough run that saw them upset higher-seeded teams and capture the imagination of a hockey city.

That playoff run was built on grit. As the 8th seed, Nashville swept the top-seeded Chicago Blackhawks in the first round, then proceeded to knock off the St. Louis Blues and Anaheim Ducks to reach the Final. But despite their underdog momentum, they fell short in the championship round—denied the ultimate hardware, and left to chase that dream again.

Even after that near miss, the Predators remain defined by ambition. Their only Stanley Cup Final berth stands as a reminder of both how far they’ve come and how much remains to be done. Among NHL franchises, they are a clear example of sustained competitiveness that has yet to cross the final threshold.

San Jose Sharks | 1 appearance

The San Jose Sharks, founded in 1991, came agonizingly close to their first Stanley Cup in the 2016 Final. That season marked a watershed moment: the franchise’s first-ever appearance in the Cup Final after years of regular playoff appearances.

Facing the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Sharks pushed hard, igniting massive passion throughout the Bay Area. But in Game 6 at home, the Penguins pulled away with a 3–1 win, sealing the series 4–2. Despite the defeat, the Sharks’ run remains a defining moment for a team that long seemed cursed outside of regular-season success.

That lone Final appearance still carries weight. For San Jose, it’s more than a missed title: it’s proof that the arena-level brilliance, big-game talent, and high-caliber coaching can converge—if only one more time.

Ottawa Senators | 1 appearance

The modern Ottawa Senators, re-established in 1992, have only made it to the Stanley Cup Final once, in 2007. It was a milestone for a younger franchise hoping to shake the “expansion team” label, but the outcome was bitter: Ottawa lost the Final 4–1 to the Anaheim Ducks.

That series was the high-water mark for the early Senators era. They entered the playoffs with momentum, but Anaheim’s composure and experience proved too much in the long run.

For Ottawa, that single Final trip is both a source of pride and a frustration. It serves as a reminder that they have tasted what’s possible—but also how far they must go to break through and claim their first Stanley Cup.

Vegas Golden Knights | 2 appearances

The Vegas Golden Knights remain one of the most compelling stories in modern NHL history. As a young expansion team, they stunned the league by reaching the Stanley Cup Final in just their second season (2018), only to fall to the Washington Capitals.

But what makes their legacy even more extraordinary is what came next: in 2023, the Knights returned to the Final and closed the deal, beating the Florida Panthers 4–1. The clincher happened in dramatic fashion — a 9–3 Game 5 at home, highlighted by captain Mark Stone’s hat trick and Jonathan Marchessault earning Conn Smythe honors.

Anaheim Ducks | 2 appearances

The Anaheim Ducks’ journey to the Stanley Cup Final reads like a Hollywood script. Their first appearance came in 2003 when they were still known as the Mighty Ducks — facing the New Jersey Devils in a grueling seven-game series, and ultimately falling short.

But four years later, in 2007, they returned with renewed strength. That year, Anaheim defeated the Ottawa Senators in just five games to claim their first and only Stanley Cup. What makes that victory especially rich in story is that it marked a full-circle moment for a franchise born out of pop culture: the movie-inspired Ducks had become champions in real life.

Carolina Hurricanes | 2 appearances

The Carolina Hurricanes have had their share of Stanley Cup Final drama, and their narrative is as poignant as it is triumphant. Their first Final came in 2002, but they were outclassed by a powerhouse Detroit Red Wings squad.

Undeterred, the Hurricanes returned in 2006 for a rematch on a grand stage — this time against the Edmonton Oilers. Down to the wire, they forced a Game 7 and captured the Cup by winning 3–1 on home ice, with rookie Cam Ward earning Conn Smythe honors. That moment became a defining chapter: a franchise that had tasted disappointment climbing all the way to the summit.

Washington Capitals | 2 appearances

The Washington Capitals’ championship story is rooted in perseverance. Their first Stanley Cup Final came in 1998, but they suffered a sweep at the hands of the Detroit Red Wings.

It would take two decades of near-misses, heartbreaks, and reinvention before they finally broke through. In 2018, led by Alex Ovechkin, the Capitals defeated the Vegas Golden Knights in five games to win their first-ever Stanley Cup.

Buffalo Sabres | 2 appearances

The Buffalo Sabres’ Stanley Cup Final story is defined by frustration, resilience, and the kind of heartbreak that becomes part of a franchise’s mythology. Their first appearance came in 1975, during the era of the famed “French Connection,” but the run ended at the hands of a dominant Flyers squad.

Decades later, in 1999, Buffalo returned to the Final only to endure one of the most infamous endings in NHL history — Brett Hull’s overtime goal counted despite the disputed “skate in the crease,” sealing the series for Dallas and leaving Sabres fans with a lingering rallying cry: “No Goal”. For a team still chasing its first championship, those near-misses loom larger than any banner.

Colorado Avalanche | 3 appearances

Colorado Avalanche’s relationship with the Stanley Cup Final is a showcase of transformation — from relocation to immediate glory. After moving from Quebec in 1995, the newly minted Avalanche wasted no time, reaching and winning the Final in 1996 behind Joe Sakic’s leadership and Patrick Roy’s brilliance.

Their second title came in 2001, capping off Ray Bourque’s storied career with an emotional finish that remains one of the league’s most iconic moments. And two decades later, the Avalanche surged back in 2022, blending speed, youth, and firepower to defeat Tampa Bay and claim their third championship.

Los Angeles Kings | 3 appearances

The Los Angeles Kings spent decades as an underdog franchise — a team with flashes of star power but little postseason reward. Their first Stanley Cup Final appearance arrived in 1993 during the Wayne Gretzky era, a magical run that ended against the Montreal Canadiens. Nearly twenty years later, Los Angeles reinvented itself with a bruising, defensively suffocating identity that changed everything.

In 2012, the Kings stormed through the playoffs as the unexpected eighth seed, winning the Stanley Cup with a mix of grit and dominance. They returned in 2014 with even greater resilience, surviving three straight seven-game series before defeating the Rangers for their second championship.

At the center of the effort was Matthew Schaefer, whose standout rookie season continued with another impactful night. The 18-year-old delivered a goal, an assist, and the competitive edge the Islanders leaned on during their most turbulent stretches. His postgame comments matched the confidence he has shown on the ice.

For a team fighting to maintain its footing in a crowded Eastern Conference race, the victory—and Schaefer’s growing presence—offered a timely boost heading into a challenging back-to-back.

Did the Islanders outplay Vegas?

After the win, Schaefer offered a clear assessment of the matchup. “We definitely didn’t stop fighting. I mean, I just think from the start, we started out hot. I think we were a better team. I mean, Sorokin made a lot of big saves for us. So, when you have a goalie like that, it definitely helps. We kept fighting back,” he told The Hockey News.

Despite penalties and a blown two-goal lead, New York forced overtime and capitalized when the opportunity came.

How is Schaefer shaping his rookie campaign?

Schaefer’s 14 points in 17 games highlight a debut season already surpassing expectations. His emergence has also validated key roster decisions, including the move that brought in Emil Heineman, who scored his seventh goal of the year against Vegas.

What’s next for Schaefer and the Islanders?

New York is back on the ice Friday against the Utah Mammoth at 7:00 p.m. ET—a quick turnaround that will test Schaefer’s stamina after another high-usage performance.

Marchand’s latest effort — a slick backhand finish midway through the second period — also stretched his point streak to eight games. The veteran winger has rediscovered his trademark edge, combining precision and poise as Florida capped its road trip at an even 2–2–0.

Vegas mounted a late push, but Sergei Bobrovsky turned aside 30 shots to preserve the win, marking his 437th career victory and tying him with Jacques Plante for ninth all time in NHL history.

It’s Marchand’s longest goal streak since the 2015–16 season, when he recorded seven straight games with a goal. Over his current eight-game point run, he’s tallied eight goals and four assists, now just two points shy of the 1,000 mark for his career.

Maurice’s reaction

“He’s special and tight. His hands are so quick,” Paul Maurice said according to NHL.com. “You know he’s a good player when you coach against him, but when you see him up close, it’s just exceptional.”

Florida’s balance and Vegas’ frustration

Jesper Boqvist opened the scoring for Florida in the first period, and Sam Reinhart added a power-play goal early in the third that proved decisive. “We looked cold for the last few games,” Maurice admitted. “It’s good that it’s a game-winner and off a shot tip.”

For Vegas, Tomas Hertl and Ivan Barbashev scored, while Carl Lindbom made 17 saves in the loss. Despite outshooting the Panthers 12–1 in the final frame, the Golden Knights fell short for the third straight game (0–2–1).

What comes next for Florida and Marchand?

With Marchand nearing the 1,000-point milestone, the Panthers will aim to sustain their momentum as they return home for a key divisional matchup against the Washington Capitals on Thursday, Nov. 13, at 8:00 p.m. ET. Marchand’s hot streak and Florida’s balance will be critical if the team hopes to continue climbing the standings and build on their recent success.

Hockey has always been a family affair: bright lights, shared jerseys and that rush when the puck hits the ice. Across the NHL, some arenas have mastered the art of making every visit feel like a celebration for fans of all ages.

From kid-friendly activities to wide-open concourses and warm hospitality, these venues transform a game night into a lasting memory. Noise meets comfort, and tradition blends with modern fan-focused design.

Whether it’s a child’s first faceoff or a cherished weekend ritual, the league’s most welcoming homes continue to raise the standard for what a fan experience should be—joyful, inclusive and unforgettable.

T-Mobile Arena | Vegas Golden Knights

In a city globally famous for its flair, glamour, and high-stakes casinos, the T-Mobile Arena, home of the Vegas Golden Knights, has achieved the remarkable feat of injecting a dose of family-friendly energy without sacrificing the signature Las Vegas spectacle.

Affectionately nicknamed “The Fortress” for its intense atmosphere—even recognized by the NHL Players’ Association as the toughest venue for visiting teams—this arena distinguishes itself through a truly immersive approach.

The experience is a total show, featuring elaborate pre-game productions that embrace the dramatic nature of Las Vegas, keeping both children and adults on the edge of their seats.

The venue’s relative newness ensures state-of-the-art amenities, including seamless, fully digital ticketing and transaction processing, a modern convenience that makes a family outing wonderfully hassle-free. A trip here is less a game, and more a high-octane family blockbuster.

Bridgestone Arena | Nashville Predators

If any venue has grasped that the fanbase of the future is cultivated from childhood, it is the Bridgestone Arena. The home of the Predators has created a fan-experience concept that is a hat trick of family marketing: the Gnashville Fun Zone.

Strategically located near Section 103, this entertainment oasis is the perfect entry point for families. Far from being a simple corner, the Fun Zone is a dedicated play haven where children can engage in activities that include:

• Playing street hockey on a miniature rink.
• Immersing themselves in video game and Virtual Reality (VR) hockey experiences.
• Visiting “Gnash’s House” (the mascot’s personal space), a cozy spot featuring a library, adding a thoughtful, calm, and educational touch to the pre-game frenzy.

The offering is completed by a dedicated concession stand selling a “Zamboni Kids Meal” packaged in a souvenir container, demonstrating a comprehensive commitment to making every child’s visit memorable and worth repeating. Bridgestone Arena doesn’t just host games; it manufactures future “Fang-atics.”

Grand Casino Arena | Minnesota Wild

The Grand Casino Arena in Saint Paul is more than just an arena: it is a temple to the sport that defines the state. For a family, attending a Wild game is an experience that transcends the sporting event, plunging them into what is known as the authentic “Minnesota Hockey culture,” described as both “warm and welcoming”.

Recognized globally as one of the finest venues for sports, this arena proudly exhibits its local heritage. A “State of Hockey” tribute is palpable upon entry, with a unique visual feature capturing everyone’s attention: a ring of jerseys from every Minnesota high school hockey team, honoring both boys’ and girls’ programs.

This detail not only respects history but deeply connects with local families whose children might dream of seeing their own jersey hoisted one day. The combination of modern infrastructure, spacious concourses (up to 70 feet wide), and this rich visual history positions it as a premier family-friendly hub.

Nationwide Arena | Columbus Blue Jackets

The Nationwide Arena, home of the Blue Jackets, has made interaction and personalization the cornerstone of its family offering, particularly for groups. More than a place to watch hockey, it is a space to live hockey.

Columbus’ arena boasts an array of Fan Experience Packages that are a veritable wish list for any young fan or youth team. Imagine your children feeling like professionals for a day. Nationwide Arena makes this possible through sought-after experiences such as:

• Future Jackets: This is a lifetime opportunity for 6U to 12U players to dress in the adjacent locker room and play on the NHL ice during the intermissions.
• High Five Tunnel: An interactive package allowing fans to slap hands with the Blue Jackets players as they take the ice before the game.
• Gatorade BoomBoni: An on-ice ride experience in a retrofitted Zamboni during intermissions, a genuine thrill for any child.

Furthermore, prioritizing convenience, the venue is a completely cashless experience and offers “Sensory Packs” at guest services, ensuring the environment is comfortable for all attendees, including those with specific sensory needs.

Benchmark International Arena | Tampa Bay Lightning

In sunny Florida, the family experience at Benchmark International Arena, home of the Lightning, often starts well before the turnstiles, spilling out into the vibrant Thunder Alley. Tampa Bay’s approach is to transform the hockey game into a community festival.

Thunder Alley, an outdoor plaza nestled between surrounding buildings, is the host of an epic pre-game party. This space becomes the social epicenter, featuring live music, food trucks, and bars, creating a relaxed, festive atmosphere.

For families seeking a less crowded feel, the venue even projects the game onto a large screen on the parking garage, allowing fans to congregate outside, which often makes accessing refreshments easier and more comfortable.

A recent strategic partnership announcement to further elevate the overall fan experience underlines the Lightning’s continuous commitment to innovation, ensuring the atmosphere inside and outside the arena remains top-tier.

Bell Centre | Montreal Canadiens

For many families in Quebec, attending a game at the Bell Centre is not merely a weekend plan; it is a ritual, a tangible encounter with living hockey history. Home to the NHL’s most storied franchise, this venue offers a deep dive into Canadian hockey culture that few other arenas can match.

The atmosphere is an electric blend of passion and bilingual (French and English) tradition, providing a truly “incredible perspective” of Montreal. While the arena’s focus is undeniably on its historic gravity and intensity, the sheer act of watching a game in this storied coliseum is a lesson in sports heritage for the entire family.

Its design, featuring steeped seats and two levels of luxury boxes, is classic, but the true value lies in the overwhelming presence of its championship banners and the “noticeable amount of families and kids” attending games, highlighting that in Montreal, being a fan is a deeply traditional, multi-generational affair.

Madison Square Garden | N.Y. Rangers

Madison Square Garden in Manhattan is distinguished by its incomparable legendary status. Attending a Rangers game is a pilgrimage for fans worldwide, the dream of seeing hockey in the “World’s Most Famous Arena.”

While a study by Action Network highlights MSG as one of the most expensive NHL arenas for a family of four, the experience it offers is universally categorized as “iconic” and “unforgettable”. The high price is offset by the venue’s grandeur, the vibrant energy of the crowd, and its unbeatable location in the heart of Manhattan.

For families looking for a deeper connection with the venue, the Madison Square Garden Tour Experience is a highly recommended “Family-friendly” activity, granting behind-the-scenes access to historical exhibits and team areas, making the visit complete and memorable, regardless of the final score. MSG is also notably Sensory Inclusive Certified, enhancing accessibility for all families.

Rogers Place | Edmonton Oilers

Rogers Place, home of the Oilers, is the centerpiece of an ambitious urban development project known as the ICE District. This modern facility was conceived not just as a stadium, but as the foundation of an entertainment district designed to provide a smooth and integrated family experience.

While much focus is placed on its capacity to host large events, including popular “Road Game Watch Parties”, the arena’s design prioritizes convenience and the overall game-day journey. Rogers Place and the ICE District utilize advanced security technology for quicker, safer entry.

For families with older children and teens, the surrounding concourse offers pre-game gathering spots and the use of the “Food Finder” tool, which helps easily locate the wide variety of quality concessions, often featuring fresh, local ingredients. The modern focus and seamless integration with the surrounding district ensure that a family visit is an efficient and comprehensive day out.

Little Caesars Arena | Detroit Red Wings

The Little Caesars Arena, the modern home of the storied Detroit Red Wings, has established itself as more than just a place to watch hockey; it is a meticulously designed urban hub prioritizing inclusivity and ease for all visitors. This venue distinguishes itself by addressing a critical, often overlooked, aspect of a great family experience: accessibility for those with sensory needs.

With input from sensory experts, the arena features a dedicated Sensory Room, thoughtfully equipped with elements like adjustable lighting, calming visuals, and tools such as bubble walls and tactile objects. This space ensures that families with members who might become overwhelmed by the intense noise and lights of a game can still attend and enjoy the experience in a personalized, calming environment.

Coupled with its prime Midtown location, surrounded by city attractions, and its commitment to the “Detroit way” of hockey—a passionate blend of finesse and grit—the LCA offers an enriching day out that connects families to both the city’s blue-collar history and its modern commitment to a welcoming fan environment.

American Airlines Center | Dallas Stars

The American Airlines Center, nestled in the vibrant Victory Park neighborhood of Dallas, serves as the modern, sleek home for the Stars, embodying the growth of hockey in the Sun Belt. While Dallas is a sports-obsessed city, the AAC successfully integrates the high-energy of an NHL game with the sophisticated entertainment district that surrounds it.

For families, the attraction lies in the seamless transition from the arena action to the broader downtown cultural scene. The venue’s event calendar often aligns with other major city attractions—ranging from children’s theatre and family-focused museum exhibits to large-scale shows—making a Stars game part of a larger, customizable weekend adventure.

The arena provides a clean, contemporary, and easily navigable environment where families can enjoy top-tier amenities. While general information focuses on ticketing and events, its central location and the sheer volume of surrounding activities ensure that the AAC experience is integrated into a complete family day out in a dynamic urban landscape.

SAP Center | San Jose Sharks

The SAP Center, affectionately known as “The Shark Tank,” is recognized for its passionate West Coast atmosphere, but its true strength for families lies in its diverse, hands-on Fan Experience Packages that turn passive spectatorship into active participation.

San Jose offers a menu of engaging, once-in-a-lifetime opportunities that are particularly appealing to young fans and youth groups:

• Bench Experience & Penalty Box Access: Allowing fans to watch pre-game warm-ups from the unique vantage point of the team bench or the penalty box.
• On-Ice Photo Opportunities: Groups can step onto the NHL ice for a treasured photo with the Sharks logo.
• Post-Game Slap Shot: An incredible chance for fans to step onto center ice and fire a shot at the net.
• Zamboni Ride: The ultimate intermission thrill, cruising the ice surface—a favorite for children.

These tailored experiences, coupled with large community events like the annual “Sharks Fan Fest” where families can meet players and take photos with the iconic Shark Head, ensure that the SAP Center isn’t just a building; it’s a launchpad for cherished, personal hockey memories.

Crypto.com Arena | Los Angeles Kings

The Crypto.com Arena (formerly Staples Center), home to the Los Angeles Kings, sits at the heart of the bustling LA Live entertainment complex. This prime location is the foundation of its family-friendly appeal, offering an experience that is deeply woven into the fabric of downtown Los Angeles’ entertainment scene.

Attending a Kings game here means access to a destination that caters to every family member, regardless of their interest in hockey. The arena itself is architecturally magnificent, providing 18,145 seats for hockey, with excellent sightlines and three levels of luxury suites.

Its proximity to dozens of restaurants, theaters, and attractions within the LA Live development makes it simple for families to craft a full evening of entertainment without having to commute across the sprawling city.

While known for hosting massive events like the Grammy Awards, the arena consistently includes “Family” focused events on its calendar, confirming its role as a flexible venue designed to deliver world-class sports and concerts alongside entertainment suitable for all ages.

Capital One Arena | Washington Capitals

The Capital One Arena, located squarely in Washington D.C.’s Penn Quarter neighborhood, transforms the hockey game into an energetic urban outing. The arena’s location is its greatest amenity for visiting families, placing them within walking distance of museums, historic sites, and the city’s buzzing cultural life.

A Capitals game is an opportunity for families to combine high-level hockey with the nation’s capital experience. The arena is consistently booked with events appealing to diverse demographics, including concerts, family shows, and other major league sports, ensuring it remains a central destination.

While the focus is often on the Capitals’ intense fan base, the convenience of the venue, with its multiple public transportation links and the concentration of pre- and post-game dining options in the surrounding district, makes managing a family trip to the game straightforward and efficient. For families, the true value lies in how easily the game can be integrated into a broader day exploring the District of Columbia.

United Center | Chicago Blackhawks

The United Center, an imposing structure that proudly hosts the Chicago Blackhawks, embodies a legacy of intense passion and is deeply committed to ensuring a smooth experience for its multi-generational fanbase. In Chicago, hockey is a tradition passed down, and the arena’s operational setup reflects a focus on accessibility and clarity.

For families, the critical feature is the straightforward logistical approach to attending an event. The United Center explicitly states its child ticket policy—children under 36″ do not require a ticket but must sit on an adult’s lap—a simple guideline that removes pre-game confusion for parents of toddlers.

Furthermore, the extensive guidance on mobile ticketing and account management provided by the venue reflects a commitment to minimizing friction points for modern families who manage their tickets digitally.

While the on-ice atmosphere is famously loud and passionate, the venue’s efficient, professional management of ticketing and entry provides the functional foundation for a stress-free and enjoyable family outing in a city defined by its sports heroes.

Enterprise Center | St. Louis Blues

The Enterprise Center, the home of the St. Louis Blues, sits at the intersection of sports, music, and urban revitalization in downtown St. Louis. For families, a Blues game is an anchor event that ties into the city’s rich cultural offerings, most notably its deep connection to the blues music scene.

The experience here encourages families to treat the game as part of a larger cultural exploration. The arena is located near attractions like the National Blues Museum, making it easy to create a unique pre-game itinerary that is both fun and educational.

While the focus of the fan experience centers on the electric atmosphere of the Blues, the venue is a staple of downtown life. Its convenient access to other major city hubs, like Busch Stadium, highlights its centrality within the St. Louis sports and entertainment ecosystem, offering the comfort and accessibility expected of a modern urban venue for families looking for both big-game excitement and community immersion.

Though only five games into the NHL campaign, the lack of goals from Marner was starting to grow concerning for fans in Las Vegas. However, Marner put doubts to rest with a two-goal performance against the Flames. After the 6-2 win, Vegas climbed to the top of the Pacific Division, and Marner voiced a powerful comment.

“I knew I was going to get looks and opportunities,” Marner said, per NHL.com. “I knew they would fall eventually. I was just trying to make sure I do everything else right to get the opportunities to put myself in that spot to get those looks.”

First in a while

Marner recorded two goals in an NHL game for the first time since March 8, 2024, when the Toronto Maple Leafs lost 7-4 to the Colorado Avalanche on the road. Scoring twice for the first time in his new colors might be just what the doctor ordered for Marner in Sin City.

Too much too handle

Marner and the Golden Knights operated at 100% on the power play during their win over the Flames, converting on all three of their man-advantage opportunities.

“It’s pretty fun,” Marner commented on the Golden Knights’ power play. “There’s so many different threats out there that make plays. They’ve done a great job down low of really making teams play in different areas there and it’s been a lot of fun to watch.”

With their tremendous outing against the Flames, the Golden Knights now boast the league’s second-best power play unit. So far in the 2025-26 NHL season, Vegas operates at a 37.5% success rate. Only the Minnesota Wild (38.5%) rank higher across the continent.

Hart’s addition could prove decisive for the Golden Knights down the stretch. Though Adin Hill led the NHL franchise in Las Vegas to its first Stanley Cup in 2023, concerns remain about his availability—and his reliability—on a nightly basis.

On that note, having Hart join the tandem can help Vegas reach another level in terms of goaltending. Still, Hart won’t be able to help out the Golden Knights on the ice for some time.

Why isn’t Hart playing against the Bruins?

Hart won’t make his debut for the Golden Knights on October 16, when the Bruins walk into T-Mobile Arena in Sin City. In fact, the 27-year-old goaltender won’t be allowed back on the ice before December 1st.

Although the former Flyers’ goalie was acquitted of all charges in the resolution of the Hockey Canada trial, the NHL still intervened with a sanction of its own for the five players involved. As a result, neither player was allowed to sign a new league contract until Oct. 15, and they can’t be back on the ice until December.

No contract yet

In addition to the NHL’s ruling on the players involved in the Hockey Canada trial, Hart can’t actually play for the Golden Knights for another reason. Although he’s technically a new member of the Las Vegas organization, Hart isn’t signed to a contract per se.

Instead, he’s currently on a professional tryout deal (PTO). For him to suit up for Vegas, he must first complete his tryout period and earn a standard contract with the team. All signs indicate he’ll put pen to paper sooner rather than later. Still, since Hart can’t man the crease until the final month of the year, the Golden Knights are in no rush to officially sign him.