Every Monday during the 2024-25 NHL season, ESPN and NHL Network analyst Kevin Weekes will guide fans through the week’s nationally televised games. In this article, we preview the matchups for the third week of the season.
There are 15 games scheduled to be broadcast nationally by ESPN, TNT, Sportsnet, and/or TVA Sports and Prime, with the NHL Frozen Frenzy on Tuesday being a highlight, featuring all 32 teams playing at various times throughout the day.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 21
Tampa Bay Lightning at Toronto Maple Leafs (7:30 p.m. ET; Prime, NHLN, BSSUN, TVAS): This week’s “Prime Monday Night Hockey” showcases Tampa Bay Lightning’s scoring champion from last season, Nikita Kucherov, facing off against Auston Matthews of the Maple Leafs, who led in goals last season. Kucherov currently leads the NHL with seven goals over four games, while Matthews has started more slowly with two goals in five outings.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 22
Washington Capitals at Philadelphia Flyers (6 p.m. ET; ESPN, ESPN+, SNW, SN1): This is the first of a home-and-home series between these Metropolitan Division rivals, taking place at Capital One Arena as the second NHL Frozen Frenzy kicks off. Alex Ovechkin continues to pursue the NHL’s all-time goals record, having scored 49 goals against the Flyers, the second-highest tally against any team, just behind the Carolina Hurricanes (50). The Flyers are on a four-game losing streak (0-3-1), but rookie Matvei Michkov has made an impact with four points (two goals, two assists) in five games.
Colorado Avalanche at Seattle Kraken (8:30 p.m. ET; ESPN, ESPN+): After an initial four-game losing streak, the Avalanche have bounced back with two consecutive victories. Nathan MacKinnon, who notched 140 points and won the Hart Trophy as MVP last season, has recorded points in every game, including five multipoint performances. Cale Makar is also on a roll, leading the NHL with 10 assists and maintaining a six-game points streak since the season’s onset, including two assists in a 4-1 win against San Jose on Sunday. The Kraken, meanwhile, have won three straight games and four out of five as they continue a five-game homestand.
Los Angeles Kings at Vegas Golden Knights (11 p.m. ET; ESPN, ESPN+): Jack Eichel and Mark Stone have been standout players for the Golden Knights this season, but they were both kept off the scoresheet for the first time in a 4-3 overtime loss to the Florida Panthers. Following a promising start with three consecutive wins, Vegas has now lost three in a row (0-2-1). The Kings will be wrapping up a seven-game road trip at the season’s start.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25
Nashville Predators at Chicago Blackhawks (8:30 p.m. ET; ESPN+, HULU): The revamped Predators (0-5-0) are seeking their first win of the season and will look to Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault for support. Should they fail to secure a victory or a point against the Bruins on Tuesday, they will enter the matchup against Connor Bedard and the Blackhawks, who are finishing a four-game homestand, still searching for that elusive win.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26
Toronto Maple Leafs at Boston Bruins (7 p.m. ET; NHLN, NESN, SNP, SNO, CBC): Auston Matthews of the Maple Leafs and the Bruins’ David Pastrnak, who have together captured four of the last five Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophies for top goal-scorer, will meet for the first time this season. In last year’s Eastern Conference First Round, the Bruins eliminated the Maple Leafs in seven games and have since won seven consecutive regular-season mathups against this Original Six opponent.
Pittsburgh Penguins at Vancouver Canucks (10 p.m. ET; CBC, SN, CITY, SN-PIT): The Penguins, led by Sidney Crosby, will conclude their four-game road trip in Western Canada against the Canucks. The game highlights the last two Norris Trophy recipients, including Pittsburgh’s Erik Karlsson (2022-23 with the San Jose Sharks) and Vancouver’s Quinn Hughes (most recent winner).
OTHER NATIONALLY TELEVISED GAMES
Wednesday
Philadelphia Flyers at Washington Capitals (7:30 p.m. ET; TNT, MAX, truTV, SN1)
Thursday
Dallas Stars at Boston Bruins (7 p.m. ET; Victory+, NESN, SNP, SNO, SNE, TVAS)
Friday
Pittsburgh Penguins at Edmonton Oilers (9 p.m. ET; SN1, TVAS)
Saturday
Detroit Red Wings at Buffalo Sabres (1 p.m. ET; BSDET, MSG-B, SN)
Utah Hockey Club at Los Angeles Kings (4 p.m. ET; Utah16, BSW, SN)
St. Louis Blues at Montreal Canadiens (7 p.m. ET; TVAS, CITY, SNE, BSMW)
Winnipeg Jets at Calgary Flames (7 p.m. ET; SN360, SNW)
Sunday
Edmonton Oilers at Detroit Red Wings (6 p.m. ET; BSDET, NHLN, SN)
NHL Weekly Television Guide: Key Matchups and Must-Watch Games for the Third Week of the 2024-25 Season
The NHL season is in full swing, and as we enter the third week of the 2024-25 season, fans are eager for exciting matchups and critical games that could shape playoff standings. This guide will help you navigate the must-watch games of the week, providing insights into key matchups, player performances to watch, and where to catch all the action on television.
Key Matchups to Watch
This week features several high-stakes games that fans won’t want to miss. Below is a selection of the most anticipated matchups, showcasing both traditional rivalries and intriguing new contests.
Monday, October 30, 2024
Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Boston Bruins
- Time: 7:00 PM ET
- Location: Scotiabank Arena, Toronto
- TV: Sportsnet, NBCSN
This matchup pits two of the league’s powerhouse teams against each other. The Maple Leafs will look to assert their dominance on home ice, while the Bruins are eager to bounce back from a recent loss.
Tuesday, October 31, 2024
Pittsburgh Penguins vs. New York Rangers
- Time: 7:30 PM ET
- Location: PPG Paints Arena, Pittsburgh
- TV: ESPN, MSG
This classic rivalry promises to deliver fast-paced action. Both teams have star-studded lineups, and with playoff implications on the line, expect a hard-fought battle.
Wednesday, November 1, 2024
Florida Panthers vs. Tampa Bay Lightning
- Time: 7:00 PM ET
- Location: Amalie Arena, Tampa
- TV: Bally Sports, NHL Network
The Battle of Florida is always a fierce encounter, and both teams are vying for position in the competitive Atlantic Division. Watch for thrilling offensive plays and solid goaltending.
Friday, November 3, 2024
Colorado Avalanche vs. Dallas Stars
- Time: 9:00 PM ET
- Location: Ball Arena, Denver
- TV: Altitude Sports, Bally Sports Southwest
The Avalanche and Stars have developed a heated rivalry in recent years, making this matchup a must-see. Key players to watch include Nathan MacKinnon and Jason Robertson, who can change the game with their skills.
Must-Watch Players
As the season progresses, certain players rise to the occasion, becoming pivotal to their team’s success. Here are some players to keep an eye on this week:
- Auston Matthews (Toronto Maple Leafs) – Known for his goal-scoring ability, Matthews is a game-changer who can alter the course of any matchup.
- Igor Shesterkin (New York Rangers) – The Rangers’ goaltender is crucial in tight games, making him a key player in the matchup against the Penguins.
- Jonathan Huberdeau (Florida Panthers) – A creative playmaker, Huberdeau’s vision on the ice can set up numerous scoring opportunities.
- Bowen Byram (Colorado Avalanche) - A rising star on the blue line, Byram’s offensive and defensive contributions are vital to the Avalanche’s success.
Viewing Options: Where to Catch the Games
For fans wanting to catch every moment of the action, knowing where to watch is crucial. Here’s a quick reference guide to television networks broadcasting NHL games this week:
| Date | Matchup | Network |
|---|---|---|
| October 30, 2024 | Maple Leafs vs. Bruins | Sportsnet, NBCSN |
| October 31, 2024 | Penguins vs. Rangers | ESPN, MSG |
| November 1, 2024 | Panthers vs. Lightning | Bally Sports, NHL Network |
| November 3, 2024 | Avalanche vs. Stars | Altitude Sports, Bally Sports Southwest |
Tips for Enhancing Your Viewing Experience
Here are some practical tips to elevate your NHL viewing experience:
- Engage with Social Media: Follow your favorite teams and players on social media for pre-game insights, highlights, and behind-the-scenes content.
- Join Fantasy Leagues: Participating in fantasy hockey can enhance your interest in various players and teams, making every game more exciting.
- Watch with Friends: Gather your fellow hockey fans for a watch party to share the excitement of key moments and goals.
- Keep Updated with Stats: Follow NHL statistics and analytics to gain deeper insights into player performances and team strategies.
First-Hand Experiences: Fan Insights
As we gear up for an exciting week of NHL action, here’s what some fans are saying about their favorite teams and anticipated matchups:
“I can’t wait for the Leafs vs. Bruins game! The atmosphere is electric, and these two teams always put on a great show.” - Emily, Toronto Maple Leafs Fan
“As a Rangers supporter, I’m excited to see how Shesterkin performs against Pittsburgh. He’s been a wall for us this season!” - Mike, New York Rangers Fan
“The Battle of Florida is always intense. I’m hoping for a high-scoring game between the Panthers and Lightning!” – Sarah, Florida Panthers Fan
Conclusion
With a jam-packed week of NHL action ahead, fans are in for a treat. Make sure to tune in to these key matchups, follow your favorite players, and enjoy the thrilling plays that make hockey one of the most exciting sports to watch. Whether at home or with friends, the NHL promises a week full of unforgettable moments!
