The National Hockey League (NHL) is set to escalate its global outreach with the announcement of the 2025 NHL Global Series, featuring the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Nashville Predators. This exciting event will take place at Stockholm's Avicii Arena on November 14 and 16, offering fans overseas a chance to witness their favorite teams compete live on ice.
It’s been reported on March 18, 2025, by the NHL, and this series will mark only the second time the Penguins have played abroad since facing the Ottawa Senators back in 2008 during the NHL Premiere Series. Notably, this series presents Sidney Crosby, the legendary captain of the Penguins, with the opportunity to return to Sweden for the first time since then—a detail he’s been eagerly anticipating. "I know Raks spent time there in the offseason, and Karl’s pretty aware of the good spots in Stockholm. So, they’ll be great hosts. It’s been a long time since I’ve been back, so I’m excited about it. We’re with the right guys to show us around; there’s no doubt," Crosby mentioned during the announcement.
For the 37-year-old Crosby, who is playing his 21st NHL season, this return is particularly meaningful. Not only is the Pittsburgh veteran eager to immerse himself back within the Swedish culture, but he is also thrilled about the broader impact this series will have. "It’s really nice to give fans the chance to see teams they wouldn't typically have the opportunity to see," he added.
Crosby isn’t alone in his excitement. His teammate Rickard Rakell, born just outside of Stockholm, shared his thoughts on the upcoming games. "I think it becomes a big thing for us. I think [it’s special] just to have a chance to play in your home country or play in front of, like, your youth team or old coaches you had growing up. For you to have a chance to have family or friends come and see you and your teammates play, I think it’s a pretty special thing," said Rakell. The opportunity to play before friends and family makes this event more significant for the players involved.
Competing against the Predators, who feature notable Swedish players such as Filip Forsberg, means fans are also set to see their stars perform live. Forsberg expressed his own enthusiasm with, "It's going to be really fitting for us; we have some Swedish players — like Filip and others — who are really proud to showcase their country. I have people who might not be able to travel but will get the chance to see me play at home. That’s pretty special."
The NHL has made strides to promote hockey on the global stage, maintaining its position as one of the leading leagues internationally. This year’s Global Series marks the 15th NHL season to include regular-season games outside of North America. Stockholm, recognized as one of the most significant cities for NHL games overseas, has now hosted the most NHL games of any city globally, which will increase to 18 with the addition of these two matchups.
With this latest initiative, the NHL seeks to engage with its international fanbase, showcasing the sport to new followers eager to embrace hockey culture. The idea of promoting NHL games abroad is not merely about the sport but also about celebrating the players' rich heritage and providing fans with closer access to the game they love.
These games will be particularly significant as they will occur at the Avicii Arena, recently renovated to offer modern facilities to its visitors. The renovations mean these matches will contribute to the arena's history as hosts of landmark sporting events.
Head Coach Barry Trotz of the Predators expressed his thoughts: “This event will be particularly special for Filip Forsberg and the other Sweden natives on our team and organization. After our fantastic experiences at the 2022 Global Series, we can’t wait to bring even more energy and enthusiasm to Sweden this November.”
Fans will be excited about the opportunity to purchase tickets for the games, which will be available during the Hockey Day celebrations hosted by the city of Linköping on March 21 and 22, 2025. The global interest coupled with engaging performances promises to deliver matches of thrilling entertainment and rich cultural connection.
Not only does this mark another stepping stone for the league, but it also reflects the long-standing dream of many players to showcase their skills on their home turf. The 2025 NHL Global Series empowers not only the participants on the ice but also the wider hockey community as it nurtures the next generation of NHL fans. The series stands as testimony to the NHL’s commitment to creatinglasting memories beyond North American borders and solidifying hockey's position as truly global.
