How to Watch the Islanders' Season Opener Against the Maple Leafs for Free

The New York Islanders are set to open their 2026-27 season on Sept. 30 against the Toronto Maple Leafs at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET.

This marks the first full season under head coach Peter DeBoer, who was hired in April 2026 for the final four games of the previous regular season following the dismissal of Patrick Roy. The Islanders finished last season sixth in the Metropolitan Division with a record of 43-34-5.

The Maple Leafs began their season on Sept. 29 with a 3-2 loss to the Montreal Canadiens.

Fans without cable can watch the Islanders' season opener via a free trial of DIRECTV, which offers a five-day trial and includes the Choice plan with over 125 channels, including ESPN. Alternatively, a subscription to MSG+ via DAZN, which costs $19.99 for the first month, provides access to all live Islanders, Rangers, Devils, and Knicks games within the New York metropolitan area.

This game will feature a clash between two recent top NHL draft picks: Matthew Schaefer, selected first overall in 2025, and Gavin McKenna, the first overall pick in 2026. Schaefer is entering his second NHL season and tied the league's rookie record for goals by a defenseman with 23 last year. He was also named the Calder Trophy winner for rookie of the year and was recently appointed an alternate captain for the Islanders.

McKenna played his NHL debut on a line with John Tavares and William Nylander but was held scoreless.