September brings hockey back into focus for Quebec fans, and the 2026–2027 NHL season already looks a little different. With a heavier regular-season schedule, a strong spring fresh in the memory of Canadiens supporters, and an opening stretch that will draw plenty of attention, there is a lot to track before the first puck drops.
The Canadiens’ exhibition slate is short but busy
Montreal has released its preseason calendar, and the format is condensed: five games spread across just three dates. That setup gives the team a quick ramp-up while still offering fans a handful of chances to see the roster take shape.
- September 19: split-squad meetings with the Toronto Maple Leafs in Montreal and Toronto.
- September 21: a trip to Trois-Rivières to face the Ottawa Senators at Colisée Vidéotron for a Kraft Hockeyville event.
- September 26: another set of split-squad games, this time against Ottawa.
The Trois-Rivières stop stands out as a local highlight, since it gives fans outside Montreal a rare chance to watch NHL players in person.
What changes across the league this season
The NHL schedule itself is expanding again. Every club will play 84 regular-season games, which adds two more to the usual total and pushes the league-wide count to 1,344 games. The regular season is set to finish on April 16, making the calendar slightly fuller than in past years.
| Season detail | 2026–2027 format |
|---|---|
| Games per team | 84 |
| Total league games | 1,344 |
| Regular-season end date | April 16 |
Why September matters for fans
Tickets for the home preseason games have been available since August 5, giving supporters time to plan ahead. For Canadiens followers, September is more than just training camp; it is the first real sign that the season’s story is about to begin.
It is also the month when expectations start to sharpen. Between roster decisions, preseason line combinations, and the extra grind of an 84-game schedule, the weeks ahead should offer plenty to watch before opening night arrives.