The Tampa Bay Lightning announced their schedule for the 2026-27 season on Thursday afternoon, while every game is important over the course of an 84 game season, there were a few dates that stood above the rest. Opening Day: October 1 @ New York Rangers The Tampa Bay Lightning will kick off their season on the road, as they'll visit the New York Rangers at the historic Madison Square Garden. They'll also be facing off against a familiar face, as Oliver Bjorkstrand will be on the Rangers' roster and will likely be debuting for his new team. Home Opener: October 3 vs Washington Capitals The Lightning will then head home two days later, as they'll host Alex Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals for their home opener. It'll also be the first time that John Carlson plays his former team of 17 seasons, as he never played against the Capitals after being traded to the Anaheim Ducks last season. The First Battle of Florida: November 28 @ Florida Panthers The Battle of Florida will look a little different this year, as the Panthers have added a second Tkachuk and they'll be looking to bounce back into the playoffs. While games between the Panthers and Lightning are always must-see, this season will likely be even more so. Raddysh, Paul Return to Tampa: February 20 vs Toronto Maple Leafs The Toronto Maple Leafs added a pair of former Lightning members over the summer, acquiring both Darren Raddysh and Nick Paul via trade. It'll take quite a while before they return to Benchmark International Arena though, as they'll make their way back to their old stomping grounds toward the end of February. Carlson's Return to Washington: March 15 @ Washington Capitals While Carlson won't have to wait long to play against his former team, it'll take quite a while for him to head back to his old home, Capital One Arena in Washington D.C. He'll play in the nation's capital for the first time since being traded last season in the middle of March.
