The first day of the 2026 Stanley Cup Final is set. Sort of.
The NHL announced Thursday that the championship series could open either June 2 or June 4, depending on which team advances from the Eastern Conference.
The final will pit the Vegas Golden Knights against the winner of the Eastern Conference Final between the Carolina Hurricanes and Montreal Canadiens.
Based on their higher regular-season point totals, either the Hurricanes or Canadiens will host Games 1 and 2 of the best-of-seven Stanley Cup Final, as well as Games 5 and 7, if necessary. The Golden Knights will host Games 3 and 4, as well as Game 6, if necessary.
If the Eastern Conference Final ends in five games, Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final will be Tuesday. If it's decided in six or seven games, Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final will be on Thursday, June 4.
Every game of the Stanley Cup Final will start at 8 p.m. ET with live coverage on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+.
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