The chill of Stockholm will soon be replaced by the heat of NHL action as the Pittsburgh Penguins and Nashville Predators prepare to face off in the 2025 NHL Global Series. Scheduled for November 14th and 16th at the Avicii Arena, these games mark a significant return for the league to Sweden and highlight the NHL's continued commitment to its international fanbase.
For the Penguins, this trip marks their first venture abroad since 2008 when they also played in Stockholm against the Ottawa Senators. Captain Sidney Crosby, who played in those games, remembers the excitement from the fans. The team boasts a roster filled with international talent, including Swedish players Filip Hallander (currently injured), Erik Karlsson, and Rickard Rakell (currently on IR), alongside stars like Kris Letang (Canada), Evgeni Malkin (Russia), and Bryan Rust (USA).
The Nashville Predators last played overseas in 2022, facing the San Jose Sharks in Prague, Czechia. Their roster also features a strong contingent of international players, including Swedish star Filip Forsberg, the franchise's leading goal scorer, and fellow countryman Adam Wilsby, as well as Roman Josi (Switzerland, currently on IR), Juuse Saros (Finland), and Steven Stamkos (Canada).
Stockholm has a rich history of hosting NHL games, having held 16 regular-season games at the Avicii Arena (formerly Ericsson Globe). These upcoming contests between the Penguins and Predators will be the 17th and 18th NHL games played in Stockholm. Sweden is a vital market for the NHL, supplying a significant portion of its talent. Approximately 10% of current NHL players were born in Sweden.
Fans in North America can catch the games on NHL Network, Sportsnet, SportsNet Pittsburgh, and FanDuel Sports Network South. Live Nation Sweden promotes the 2025 NHL Global Series Sweden presented by Fastenal, with official partners including Fastenal, SAP, CAT, Pepsi, Unibet, PLYRS, Upper Deck, Mercedes, Sony, City of Stockholm, and Scotiabank.
Adding to the fan experience, the Penguins and Predators will hold an open practice session at Avicii Arena on November 15th. This provides a unique opportunity for fans to watch the NHL stars practice their skills in a relaxed environment. Tickets are available for this event, with proceeds from Live Nation contributing to the Childhood Cancer Foundation.
These games are more than just regular-season matchups; they are a celebration of hockey's global reach and the passionate international fanbase that supports the NHL. As the Penguins and Predators prepare to face off in Stockholm, they carry the hopes and excitement of fans from around the world.
