The Boston Bruins' 2025-26 schedule has been released, and it features several key early-season games that could set the tone for their entire campaign. Here's a look at two particularly noteworthy matchups:

October 8 at Washington Capitals

The Bruins will begin their season on the road against the Washington Capitals on Wednesday, October 8. This game marks the fourth time since 2009 that the Bruins have started their season against the Capitals, and the third time they've done so in Washington. Last season, the Capitals were the top team in the East, and the Bruins had a relatively even record against them, going 1-2-0 and breaking even in goals. The Capitals are expected to bring back essentially the same roster, with Ryan Leonard now a full-time member after starting last season at Boston College. This game will be broadcast on TNT.

October 9 vs. Chicago Blackhawks

Following their opener in Washington, the Bruins will return to Boston to host the Chicago Blackhawks on Thursday, October 9, for their home opener. This game marks the return of Connor Bedard to Boston. The Blackhawks are one of the NHL's Original Six teams.

Additional Games to Watch

Beyond these two opening games, several other early-season matchups stand out:

• October 11 vs. Buffalo Sabres: The Bruins will host the Buffalo Sabres.
• October 13 vs. Tampa Bay Lightning: A matinee game against the Tampa Bay Lightning at TD Garden.
• October 21 vs. Florida Panthers: Brad Marchand will make his return to TD Garden when the Bruins host the Florida Panthers. This will be Marchand's first game against the Bruins since being injured in their previous matchup and signing with the Panthers.
• November 11 vs. Toronto Maple Leafs: Defenseman Brandon Carlo will return to TD Garden as a member of the Toronto Maple Leafs. This is one of three games between these Original Six rivals. The game falls on Hockey Hall of Fame weekend, where Zdeno Chara will be honored.
• November 28 vs. New York Rangers: The Bruins will face the New York Rangers at home on Black Friday.

Key Schedule Notes

• The Bruins will play 25 games against Atlantic Division opponents. The Buffalo Sabres, Montreal Canadiens, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Detroit Red Wings will each face the Bruins four times.
• The Bruins will have two five-game homestands, one in December and one in January.
• The team will have a five-game road trip in late December and early January.
• The Bruins will participate in the 2026 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series against the Tampa Bay Lightning at Raymond James Stadium on February 1.
• The NHL will take a break in February for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan.
• The regular season will end on April 14 at TD Garden against the New Jersey Devils.

Tickets for the 2025-26 regular season went on sale July 17.