Canadian NHL Teams in Action This Weekend Dec 19

Canadian sports enthusiasts have a thrilling weekend ahead from December 19-21, 2025, with the National Hockey League (NHL) taking center stage as the country’s seven teams hit the ice amid the regular season push. Hockey remains the heartbeat of Canadian sports in winter, and this pre-Christmas weekend features multiple games involving home teams across the nation. While no major international tournaments or other professional league games are scheduled, fans can also tune into university sports, junior hockey, and streamed international events.

This lineup offers perfect opportunities for arena visits, pub gatherings, or home viewing during the holiday lead-up. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the key action in Canada this weekend.

NHL Regular Season: Canada’s Teams in Action

The NHL provides the primary excitement, with games spread across Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Canada’s seven franchises – Toronto Maple Leafs, Montreal Canadiens, Vancouver Canucks, Edmonton Oilers, Calgary Flames, Winnipeg Jets, and Ottawa Senators – are all active this weekend.

Highlighted Games Involving Canadian Teams (Times in ET; check local listings for PT/MT adjustments):

• Friday, December 19:
  • Several matchups, including potential home games for Canadian teams (e.g., Montreal Canadiens or Toronto Maple Leafs hosting opponents).
• Saturday, December 20:
  • Prime-time slots with rivalries and contender battles; look for Vancouver Canucks or Edmonton Oilers in action.
• Sunday, December 21:
  • Afternoon and evening games, potentially featuring Winnipeg Jets or Calgary Flames.

Full NHL slate available nationwide, with many games featuring at least one Canadian side. Key storylines include playoff positioning as teams approach the holiday break.

Broadcasts: TSN, Sportsnet, CBC (select games), and NHL Centre Ice for comprehensive coverage. Streaming via Sportsnet NOW or TSN Direct.

Other Hockey Action: Junior and University Leagues

• OHL, QMJHL, WHL Games: Junior hockey leagues continue with weekend schedules. Notable matchups across Ontario, Quebec, and Western Canada – great for local fans supporting future NHL stars.
• U Sports Men’s and Women’s Hockey: University games ongoing; check conference schedules for games in cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver.

These provide affordable live options for families and communities.

Basketball: Toronto Raptors in NBA Action

The Toronto Raptors, Canada’s lone NBA team, are part of the league’s full weekend slate.

• Games on December 19-21 as per regular season schedule.
• Potential home game at Scotiabank Arena or away matchup.

Broadcast: TSN or Sportsnet for Raptors games; NBA League Pass for international access.

Additional Notes

• No major boxing, curling grand slams, or other combat sports events scheduled in Canada this weekend.
• The IIHF World Junior Championship (a Canadian holiday staple) begins December 26 in Ottawa – anticipation building!
• Minor events: Local amateur boxing cards or winter sports competitions may occur regionally.

Viewing Guide for Canadians

• TV/Streaming: Sportsnet and TSN dominate NHL coverage; CBC for Hockey Night in Canada (Saturday).
• Tickets: Available for NHL and junior games via team sites or Ticketmaster – many arenas offer holiday promotions.
• Weather Note: Indoor arenas perfect for winter conditions!

This December 19-21 weekend embodies Canada’s passion for hockey, with NHL games delivering national excitement ahead of the festive season.