The NHL is setting the stage for something special in Tampa.
Raymond James Stadium, typically home to shoulder pads and end zone celebrations, will swap turf for ice as it hosts the 2026 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series. And it’s not just any outdoor game - this one features two of the league’s hottest teams since the calendar flipped to January.
Tampa Bay and Boston have been on absolute heaters. The Lightning are rolling with a .855 points percentage since Jan. 1, and the Bruins aren’t far behind at .821.
That’s not just good - that’s elite, and it sets the tone for what should be a high-octane matchup under the Florida night sky. And while fans might’ve expected to sweat it out in the usual Sunshine State warmth, the puck will drop in a brisk 45°F (7°C), adding a little extra bite to the action.
This isn’t just a showcase - it’s a collision of momentum. Tampa Bay’s found its groove at just the right time, and Boston continues to assert itself as a force in the East.
With 63,000 fans expected to pack the stadium, the atmosphere promises to be electric. Outdoor hockey always brings a certain magic, but when you pit two surging contenders against each other in front of that kind of crowd, it’s more than a spectacle - it’s a statement game.
And that’s just the headline on what’s been a wild week around the league.
January closed with a bang. Defensemen across the NHL rewrote the record books, combining for the most goals ever scored by blueliners in a single calendar month. It’s a testament to how the modern game continues to evolve - defensemen aren’t just holding the line anymore; they’re driving the offense.
Speaking of offensive firepower, Nathan MacKinnon hit a major milestone, becoming the first player this season to reach the 40-goal mark. He’s been a one-man highlight reel, and this latest feat only strengthens his case in the MVP conversation.
And let’s not overlook Erik Karlsson, who quietly etched his name into NHL history. With his 700th career assist, he became just the second Swedish defenseman ever to reach that plateau. That’s rarefied air, and it speaks volumes about his vision, consistency, and longevity in the league.
Looking ahead, the countdown to Milan is officially on. Just 37 NHL games remain before players shift their focus to international ice. Today’s slate includes two of those matchups, with the Golden Knights and Ducks set to follow the outdoor showdown in Tampa as part of an ESPN doubleheader.
So whether it’s a historic assist from a veteran blueliner, a goal-scoring tear from a superstar forward, or an unforgettable outdoor clash between two juggernauts, the NHL is delivering in a big way. And with the Olympic break looming, every shift, every point, and every storyline is starting to matter just a little more.