Germany Is Becoming the NHL's European Test Market

The NHL has identified Edmonton and Boston for a 2027 Global Series in Germany. That is a concrete event plan involving two recognizable clubs and a market with a deep hockey audience.

Deputy commissioner Bill Daly has also said the league is considering a European outdoor game in the relatively near future and named Germany as a possible host. No site, matchup or date has been announced, so that idea remains exploration rather than a scheduled event.

The distinction is useful. The Global Series can measure ticket demand, sponsor interest, broadcast reach and the operational burden of moving regular-season teams overseas. An outdoor game would require a larger venue, a weather plan and a much broader event build.

Germany is positioned to supply the evidence for that next step. If the 2027 series works as both a live event and a media product, the league will have a stronger case for treating Europe as more than an occasional road trip.