Buy NHL Tickets Online: Best Prices, Cheap Hockey Seats, Promo Codes

Variety

by Tim Chan

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Team USA's historic victory in the 2026 Winter Olympics hockey final sparked a surge in ticket sales for regular-season NHL games. Following their thrilling 2-1 overtime win over Canada, online ticket transactions increased by more than 10 times compared to a typical day, with prices doubling or even tripling for some games. Platforms like Gametime reported significant spikes, including a 127% price increase for the New Jersey Devils' game against the Buffalo Sabres. This demand surge is unprecedented, usually seen only during playoff runs or championship celebrations. The Olympics also became a ratings bonanza, drawing millions of viewers across NBCUniversal networks and Peacock. Hockey was one of the biggest draws, with the U.S. women’s hockey team's victory over Canada ranking as the most-watched women’s hockey game ever. While exact numbers for the men’s gold medal match are pending, it’s clear that interest in the sport has surged. Additionally, the HBO Max series "Heated Rivalry" likely contributed to the ticket demand, especially among new or casual fans. SeatGeek reported a 24% increase in hockey tickets sold during the week of the show's season one finale, with a notable rise in solo ticket buyers (13% year-over-year). This suggests that "Heated Rivalry" has inspired curiosity about live hockey experiences. The NHL season resumed in February after a mid-season break for the Olympics, with teams vying for Stanley Cup playoff spots. The Florida Panthers remain champions, having defeated the Edmonton Oilers last year. Meanwhile, the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) resumed play post-Olympics, featuring eight teams including Boston, Minnesota, and Vancouver. For entertainment enthusiasts, this surge in ticket sales highlights how major sports events and pop culture can drive live

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Originally published on Variety on 2/24/2026