The National Hockey League (NHL) has announced a major expansion to its regular season schedule, with the Florida Panthers set to play 84 games in the upcoming season. The increased schedule will see the Panthers, along with the other 31 teams, take to the ice for an additional 16 games, marking the longest regular season schedule in NHL history. The Panthers will kick off their expanded season with a highly anticipated matchup against the Colorado Avalanche, who claimed the Stanley Cup title in 2022. The increased schedule is expected to lead to more intense competition and a heightened level of excitement for fans, but also poses challenges for teams and players alike.

Florida Panthers, NHL expand to 84 games, open vs. Stanley Cup champs  Yahoo Sports