The Winnipeg Jets released their full 2026-27 schedule on Thursday, giving fans their first look at a historic 84-game campaign, the longest regular season in NHL history.
From an opening night showdown to an outdoor spectacle and a pair of late-season clashes that could shape the playoff race, this year’s slate has no shortage of highlights.
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While every one of Winnipeg‘s 84 games will carry its own storylines, a handful of matchups stand out above the rest as the ones fans will want circled on the calendar well in advance. Here’s a look at the five best matchups on the Jets‘ schedule this season.
Season Opener vs. Boston Bruins – Friday, October 2nd
The Jets kick off their season on home ice at Canada Life Centre against the Boston Bruins. Season openers always carry a bit of extra buzz, and this one is no different as Winnipeg looks to set the tone early in a historic 84-game campaign.
vs. Carolina Hurricanes – Saturday, October 17th
Just over two weeks into the season, the Jets get their first crack at the defending Stanley Cup champion Carolina Hurricanes when they host them at Canada Life Centre. It marks the first of two meetings between the clubs in a three week span, giving Winnipeg an early measuring stick against the team that hoisted the Cup last spring.
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2026 Tim Hortons NHL Heritage Classic vs. Montreal Canadiens – Sunday, October 25th
Without question the marquee event of the season, the Jets will host the Montreal Canadiens at Princess Auto Stadium as part of the 2026 Tim Hortons NHL Heritage Classic.
It will be Winnipeg‘s first all-Canadian matchup of the year, and the outdoor spectacle will be preceded by a 2026 Alumni Game between the two franchises’ alumni squads on October 24th at Canada Life Centre.
at San Jose Sharks – Monday, December 28th
The Jets‘ second game back from the Christmas break brings a personal storyline for one of their newest additions. Winnipeg heads to San Jose, where defenseman Mario Ferraro spent seven seasons with the Sharks, recording 114 points in 490 games. The matchup figures to be an emotional night for Ferraro as he skates back, this time wearing a Jets sweater.
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Home-and-Home vs. Colorado Avalanche – Wednesday, March 25th and Friday, March 27th
Late season, the Jets and Avalanche square off twice in a span of three days, with Winnipeg hosting on March 25th before heading to Colorado on March 27th.
These two games, the 77th and 78th of the Jets‘ season, come at a critical point in the schedule and against a fierce divisional rival. With playoff positioning likely still being sorted out, both matchups could carry major weight in the final stretch and prove to be a pivotal turning point in Winnipeg‘s season.
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