NHL Global Series Expands to Helsinki with Hurricanes and Kraken Matchup

The National Hockey League announced Monday that the Carolina Hurricanes and Seattle Kraken will participate in the 2026 NHL Global Series, facing each other in two regular-season games scheduled for November 12 and 14 in Helsinki, Finland.

The matchup represents a significant milestone for the Seattle Kraken, who will compete internationally for the first time since joining the NHL as an expansion franchise. The organization, now in its sixth season, continues building its global presence through this prestigious opportunity to showcase hockey in one of Europe premier markets.

Carolina returns to international competition for the second time in franchise history and first since 2010, when the organization previously participated in NHL global initiatives. The 16-year gap between international appearances makes this homecoming particularly meaningful for the Hurricane organization.

The Finnish connection runs deep for both participating teams, with each roster featuring two native Finnish players who will have the unique opportunity to compete before home country supporters. Carolina Sebastian Aho and Jesperi Kotkaniemi represent the Hurricanes Finnish contingent, while Seattle counters with Kaapo Kakko and Eeli Tolvanen.

All four players except Tolvanen are currently under contract for next season, ensuring their availability for these historic matchups. The presence of established Finnish stars adds compelling storylines and guaranteed local interest for what promises to be exceptional hockey entertainment.

Veikkaus Arena in Helsinki will serve as the venue for both games, continuing the facility tradition of hosting NHL regular-season competition. The arena, formerly known as Hartwall Arena, has previously welcomed seven NHL Global Series games since the program inception.

The most recent Helsinki NHL action occurred in 2018 when Florida Panthers and Winnipeg Jets competed before enthusiastic Finnish crowds. The positive reception and organizational success of previous events influenced the league decision to return to this proven international venue.

The NHL Global Series has successfully staged 42 regular-season games across various European locations since 2007, demonstrating the league commitment to expanding hockey global reach while providing unique experiences for players, fans, and international markets.

Additional Global Series action is scheduled for December when Ottawa Senators and Chicago Blackhawks will compete in Duesseldorf, Germany. This expanded international schedule reflects the NHL strategic emphasis on growing hockey popularity beyond traditional North American markets.

For Finnish hockey enthusiasts, the November games provide rare opportunities to witness NHL-caliber competition featuring homegrown talent competing at the sport highest level. The emotional connection between Finnish players and their homeland creates compelling narratives that transcend typical regular-season matchups.

The Kraken participation marks another significant step in the franchise development, providing international exposure that enhances their brand recognition while offering players invaluable cultural experiences. Seattle commitment to this Global Series appearance demonstrates organizational ambition extending beyond domestic success.

Carolina return to international competition reflects their sustained competitiveness and appeal as Global Series participants. The Hurricane organization understands the value of representing the NHL abroad while creating memorable experiences for their Finnish players and global fanbase.

These Helsinki games represent more than competitive hockey; they symbolize the sport international growth and the NHL dedication to sharing elite hockey with passionate fans worldwide. The Finnish market enthusiastic response to previous NHL visits ensures exceptional atmospheres for both November contests.

As the November dates approach, anticipation builds for matchups that combine elite NHL competition with cultural celebration, showcasing hockey universal appeal while honoring the sport deep Finnish roots through meaningful homecoming opportunities for talented native sons.