NHL Global Series 2026 is Finally Here – Hurricanes and Kraken Clash at Nokia Arena

The wait is finally over. When the clock strikes early October, Helsinki's Nokia Arena won't just be Europe's finest ice hall – it will be the epicentre of the hockey universe. The NHL Global Series 2026 is landing in Töölönlahti, bringing with it two teams ready to tear up the ice: the Carolina Hurricanes and the Seattle Kraken.

I've been following this series since the rumours started swirling during last season's playoffs. A lot of people have asked if Helsinki can still deliver as an NHL event. I always laugh at that question. This city was passionate about hockey back when many of today's North American teams were just a pipe dream over a few beers. The atmosphere at Nokia Arena is something else, and now it's hosting two hungry teams, both with a real point to prove.

Why These Two?

The Carolina Hurricanes are bringing that fast, physical, smart brand of hockey they've been perfecting for years to Helsinki. They were on the cover of NHL 23, the team so many of us have used to win a virtual Stanley Cup from our living rooms. And now they're here, for real. Across from them stands the Seattle Kraken, an expansion team that has already built a reputation as one of the most feared road squads in the league.

Long-time fans will remember what it was like the last time the NHL came to town. But this time it's different. It's not just about a series of away games – it's about us Kiwis (and Finnish fans) getting to show what a real hockey nation looks like. And trust me, it's not the same as playing EA Sports NHL 26 Xbox Series X with your mates. This is something far, far bigger.

• A dream meets reality: The moves you've perfected in NHL 22 or NHL 23, you'll now see live, just metres away.
• The arena is ready: Nokia Arena was built for moments like this. The acoustics, the lights, the atmosphere – this is the NHL's home rink in Europe.
• A touch of history: Even though it's about the future, nights like this remind us why we love this sport. Just like those times you'd play Lego Star Wars: The Force Awakens with your sibling, these are the moments that stick with you forever. Only this time, the battle on the ice is the real deal.

How to Make the Most of It

Getting tickets will be a battle. If you think you can just walk up on the night, you're living in the past. This is the kind of event people will be talking about for years. I recommend making a night of it. Before the game, the city's restaurants will be packed with Hurricanes and Kraken fans who've travelled from the other side of the world. They have no idea what it's like to experience a Finnish hockey crowd in full force. They think they know, but they're wrong.

I'll be getting to the arena early. I want to hear what it sounds like when the puck drops for the first time. It's a sound no video game, no matter how realistic, can replicate. It's raw, it's authentic, and it's happening right here, in our backyard.

If you can't make it in person, no worries. But this will be the moment that draws the eyes of every hockey fan here. Nokia Arena's name will be in lights, and we'll have another chance to prove we're the undisputed number one in Northern Europe for hosting major hockey events. Not to mention, these two games might just be the place where the next Finnish NHL star gets their first taste of playing against the league's biggest names.

So, mark October in your calendar. If you've ever dreamed of seeing the NHL live, this is it. This isn't some exhibition tour. The Hurricanes and Kraken are coming here to win, and we'll be right there with them every step of the way.