Hockey is one of the most thrilling sports on Earth — fast, physical, and filled with moments that can change in a split second. For fans, watching the NHL live is more than entertainment; it’s part of the experience that defines winter nights.
But as traditional cable gives way to streaming, fans are faced with a big question: which service is best for watching NHL games live? There’s no shortage of options, but not all offer the same quality, coverage, or value.
Here’s a detailed comparison of the leading streaming platforms for hockey fans — from official NHL partners to all-in-one TV replacements.
NHL Power Play on ESPN+: The Official Home for Out-of-Market Games
If your priority is watching as many NHL games as possible, NHL Power Play on ESPN+ is the most direct route. As the official streaming service of the National Hockey League, it provides over 1,000 live games per season, plus replays, highlights, and exclusive coverage.
It’s particularly valuable for fans who want to follow teams outside their local market — for example, someone in Florida who wants to track every game of the Vancouver Canucks.
Strengths:
- Official NHL license ensures reliability and HD quality.
- Excellent for fans following multiple teams.
- Available across smart TVs, consoles, and mobile devices.
Limitations:
- Local blackouts apply for home-region games.
- Does not include every nationally televised matchup.
Bottom line: Ideal for serious hockey fans who value official access and affordability.
Sportsnet NOW: Deep Canadian Coverage
For viewers in Canada, Sportsnet NOW is a major player. It covers regional broadcasts, national matchups, and iconic programming such as Hockey Night in Canada. It also streams select playoff rounds and exclusive interviews with players and coaches.
Strengths:
- Direct partnership with the NHL.
- High-quality production and commentary.
- Streams live and on demand in HD or 4K.
Limitations:
- Regional restrictions apply depending on your province.
- Some premium content requires an upgraded plan.
Bottom line: Best for Canadian fans who want local team coverage plus national broadcasts in one app.
TSN Direct: Regional Teams and Expert Analysis
TSN Direct focuses on select Canadian NHL franchises, including the Winnipeg Jets, Ottawa Senators, and Montreal Canadiens. It offers daily hockey content, analysis, and news, giving fans context beyond the rink.
Strengths:
- Excellent studio programming and commentary.
- Flexible pricing (daily, monthly, and annual passes).
- Works on mobile, tablet, and smart TVs.
Limitations:
- Coverage limited to certain teams.
- May not include nationally exclusive games.
Bottom line: Great for fans who want professional insight and regional coverage rather than full-league access.
YouTube TV: Full Coverage in One Subscription
YouTube TV is the closest thing to replacing cable. With over 100 live channels, including ESPN, ABC, TNT, and NHL Network (as an add-on), it provides nearly all major NHL broadcasts. Its unlimited DVR function also lets you record and rewatch games anytime.
Strengths:
- Broad national coverage.
- High-definition streaming quality.
- Excellent for multi-sport households.
Limitations:
- Monthly price is higher than single-service options.
- Local restrictions may still apply in some markets.
Bottom line: The most complete U.S. option for hockey fans who also want other live sports.
Fubo: Built for Sports Fans
Fubo is known for prioritizing sports, and its NHL coverage reflects that. The service includes national channels like ESPN and ABC and often features regional sports networks (RSNs) that carry local NHL broadcasts.
Strengths:
- Designed specifically for sports enthusiasts.
- Streams in 4K with strong reliability.
- Offers multi-screen viewing and cloud DVR.
Limitations:
- NHL Network not available in all plans.
- Premium pricing compared to other platforms.
Bottom line: Excellent for those who watch more than just hockey — ideal for multi-league fans.
Sling TV: Affordable and Flexible
For fans who want to watch hockey live without spending much, Sling TV is a strong choice. Its Sling Orange plan includes ESPN and TNT, both of which air national NHL games. Adding the Sports Extra package provides access to the NHL Network for more complete coverage.
Strengths:
- One of the cheapest paid options available.
- Flexible plans and easy customization.
- Compatible with most streaming devices.
Limitations:
- Local networks like ABC not always included.
- Regional availability varies.
Bottom line: Great for casual fans or anyone seeking an affordable way to stream NHL games legally.
Final Comparison
| Service | Best For | Key Benefit | Starting Price | Limitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ESPN+ (Power Play) | Out-of-market fans | Official NHL coverage | $10.99/month | Regional blackouts |
| Sportsnet NOW | Canadian fans | Local + national games | $14.99/month | Regional limits |
| TSN Direct | Regional team followers | Expert analysis | $19.99/month | Team-specific coverage |
| YouTube TV | U.S. viewers | All major networks | $72.99/month | High cost |
| Fubo | Multi-sport users | 4K quality + variety | $74.99/month | Premium pricing |
| Sling TV | Budget streamers | ESPN + TNT access | $40/month | Limited locals |
Conclusion
Every platform offers something different for hockey fans.
- ESPN+ provides the best all-around value for out-of-market access.
- Sportsnet NOW and TSN Direct dominate Canadian coverage.
- YouTube TV and Fubo deliver complete, TV-style experiences for fans who want convenience and quality.
- Sling TV is perfect for those seeking affordability without sacrificing official coverage.
Whichever you choose, stick with official, licensed services to enjoy the NHL live in HD, safely and without interruptions.
Visit the Official NHL Website to explore verified partners and start streaming your favourite teams today.
