TheTVApp NHL Guide for Ice Hockey Fans in the UK
TheTVApp NHL page links to US channels that carry ice hockey, but most games face off after midnight in the UK. This guide covers UK puck drop times, the Stanley Cup playoffs and the licensed ways to watch hockey from Britain.
What Hockey Fans Will Find
The NHL regular season runs from October to April, with 82 games per team, followed by the Stanley Cup playoffs into June. Hockey is fast, physical and easy to follow, which is why it has a growing UK audience, helped by the Elite Ice Hockey League at home.
The hockey section of TheTVApp links to US national and regional channels, so coverage is patchy and comes with US adverts. Canadian teams are often missing completely. Most games start at 7pm Eastern Time, which is midnight in the UK.
thetvapp.uk is an independent guide and does not host or link to streams. If the main site is not loading, check our TheTVApp down page, or browse every league in the sports hub.
National games
Featured games on US national networks, usually several each week.
Regional games
Local US channels that only show one team's games.
Playoffs
Best-of-seven series from April to June, ending with the Stanley Cup Final.
TheTVApp NHL Puck Drop Times in UK Time
| Game slot | US time (ET) | UK time |
|---|---|---|
| Weekend matinee games | 12:30pm to 3:30pm | 5:30pm to 8:30pm |
| Weeknight East Coast games | 7:00pm | 12:00am |
| Weeknight Central games | 8:00pm | 1:00am |
| Weeknight West Coast games | 10:00pm | 3:00am |
| Stanley Cup Final games | 8:00pm | 1:00am |
Times assume the usual five hour gap. In the weeks around the March and October clock changes, the gap is four hours.
Legal Ways to Watch the NHL in the UK
Licensed options that work on every device.
NHL streaming pass
The NHL sells an international streaming pass with live and on demand games. Check the NHL website for the current UK option and price.
UK TV partner
UK broadcasters have carried selected live games and the Stanley Cup Final in recent seasons. Check listings each year.
Free highlights
The NHL app and YouTube channel post free highlights and condensed games after every game.
Compare prices and devices on our legal TheTVApp alternatives page.
Best Games for UK Viewers
- Saturday and Sunday afternoon matinee games
- New Year's Day outdoor Winter Classic, which starts in the UK evening
- NHL Global Series games played in Europe
- Weekend playoff games in April and May
- Condensed replays over breakfast for late games
Matinee games are the sweet spot for UK fans: full live action at teatime with no lost sleep. Setting up a TV? See the Firestick guide or the smart TV guide.
Getting Into Hockey From the UK
If you are new to the NHL, pick a team with a style you enjoy and follow them through a season. The rules are simple: three 20 minute periods, overtime and a shootout if needed. The playoffs are where hockey shines, with long series and overtime goals that end games instantly.
UK fans can also watch live hockey in person. The Elite Ice Hockey League has teams across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, and tickets are far cheaper than a trip to North America.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What time do NHL games start in the UK?
Most weeknight games start between midnight and 3am UK time. Weekend matinee games start between 5:30pm and 8:30pm, which suits UK viewers.
Does TheTVApp NHL show Canadian teams?
Rarely. The site links to US channels, so many games involving Canadian teams are not covered. A league streaming pass is the reliable option.
Can I watch the Stanley Cup Final in the UK?
Yes, the Final is usually available through a UK broadcaster or the NHL's international streaming pass. Games start around 1am UK time.
Are NHL highlights free?
Yes. The NHL app, website and YouTube channel publish free highlights of every game shortly after it ends.
More Sports Guides
UK times and viewing options for every league.
Catch Every Goal
Check UK start times and pick a reliable, licensed way to watch.