The 2025 NHL season is set to deliver excitement for hockey fans everywhere. With dynamic changes to the draft lottery and key dates rapidly approaching, understanding the NHL schedule has never been more important. Whether you're tracking playoff races, staying updated on event times, or previewing the drama of the upcoming draft, here's your all-in-one guide.

Key Dates on the 2025 NHL Schedule

The NHL has a packed calendar this year. The regular season’s crucial games set the stage for intense playoff races leading into the Stanley Cup Playoffs. But one of the biggest highlights is the NHL Draft Lottery, now revamped for a more transparent experience.

• NHL Draft Lottery: Scheduled for Monday, May 5, 2025, at 7 p.m. ET.
• 2025 NHL Draft: Taking place on June 27–28 in Los Angeles.
• Stanley Cup Playoffs: Follow the action as teams compete for hockey’s top prize.

Live Draft Lottery: A First for the NHL Schedule

For the first time ever, the NHL Draft Lottery will be broadcast live in-studio, inviting fans to follow every suspenseful moment as it happens. Rather than just revealing results, viewers will watch the lottery balls drawn in real time. This offers a front-row seat to the drama and changes the way fans engage with a critical piece of the NHL schedule.

This year, the San Jose Sharks hold the best odds for the top pick, drawing major attention. Teams can move up a maximum of 10 spots, so expect plenty of action and tension. For details on the live draw innovation and how odds work, check out this explainer on NHL.com.

Top Prospects and What’s at Stake

The draft always marks a significant event in the NHL schedule. While the 2025 class may not have the headline-makers of previous years, defenseman Matthew Schaefer and forward Michael Misa lead scouting rankings. San Jose, Chicago, and Nashville are among the teams with the strongest odds to select first, with a detailed breakdown available on Sportsnet.ca. The real excitement lies not only in who gets picked but in how those choices shape the league landscape.

Curious about potential draft surprises? TSN’s latest survey of scouts highlights intriguing prospects beyond the top picks, with detailed rankings and stories around rising stars and injury watchlists—get the full story on TSN’s draft ranking analysis.

How the New NHL Schedule Engages Fans

These updates make the NHL schedule more interactive and transparent. Live events, real-time updates, and enhanced storytelling give fans a deeper connection to their favorite teams and new stars entering the league. The energy of the draft lottery—now on live TV—makes the wait for next season even more thrilling.

The NHL continues to innovate, placing fans at the heart of the action. Whether you're following your team's rise through the standings, keeping tabs on the playoff schedule, or tuning in for the drama of the draft, the 2025 NHL schedule is set to provide memorable moments.

Stay Connected with NHL’s Biggest Events

Don’t miss a beat! Follow the latest updates through official league sources and trusted broadcasters. Make sure you’re ready for every announcement, every shift in the odds, and every moment that could shape the NHL’s future.

Ready for puck drop? Keep your calendar marked and your feeds refreshed—this year’s NHL schedule is an event in itself!