Which NHL teams play the most off night games

Eight NHL teams share a major advantage heading into the 2025-26 season. Looking at nhl teams with most off night games, each of these squads will play 31 off-night games. That means games that happen after at least one full day of rest. With the Olympic Winter Games compressed into the schedule, that extra rest could make a real diference. But which teams are getting the most breaks, and will it actually help them win?

Which teams are getting the most rest?

The Boston Bruins, New York Rangers, and Dallas Stars lead the pack with 31 off-night games each. They're joined by the Chicago Blackhawks, Los Angeles Kings, Pittsburgh Penguins, Colorado Avalanche, and Florida Panthers. All eight teams share the same advantage. The rest of the NHL has fewer off nights, which puts these squads in a stronger position for recovery. Pretty good situation to be in, honestly.

Why does rest matter so much right now?

The Olympic Winter Games in February created a compressed schedule that squeezes more games into fewer weeks. Players need time to heal from bruises, muscle soreness, and mental fatigue (trust me, that's real). Off nights give them exactly that. Teams with more rest days can keep their rosters fresher longer. Healthier players perform better when it counts most during playoff pushes.

Does more rest guarantee success?

Not always. Rest helps, but it's only one piece of the puzzle. Team depth matters. Injuries happen regardless of rest days. Opponent quality affects every outcome. A well-rested bad team still loses to a tired good team. Off nights give advantages, but they don't promise championships.

What should fans watch for?

Track how these eight teams perform in games right after their off nights. Compare their records in back-to-back situations versus when they've rested. Look for patterns throughout the season. Fantasy hockey players should note which rosters stay healthier. Fresh legs often mean better shooting and stronger defense when fatigue matters most. That's where you'll see the real impact.