Top Apps to Watch NHL Games in 2026

Best apps to watch NHL in 2026 is exactly what you need if you love ice hockey but don’t want to pay for another monthly subscription.

The good news? You can watch NHL games for free on your phone, tablet, or TV using legal and reliable apps. Many also offer highlights, replays, and expert analysis.

In this guide, I’ll show you the Best apps to watch NHL in 2026, explain how each one works, and help you choose the best option to follow every game without spending a dime.

NHL App

O official NHL App is undoubtedly the first one you need to know.

It’s the app of the league itself, so you can imagine that the content is top-notch.

Even though it’s official, it offers selected free games, along with complete highlights.

Additionally, the app features placares ao vivo, real-time statistics, and personalized notifications.

You can choose your favorite team and receive alerts whenever the game starts or a goal is scored.

That’s great for those who often forget the time.

How to Use the NHL App

1. Baixe o aplicativo from your app store.
2. Crie uma conta gratuita (quick and simple).
3. Vá para o “Watch” aba.
4. Procurar Free Games or Free Content.

Outro ponto forte é o quality of the stream, which tends to be stable even on average internet connections.

That’s why it easily makes any list of the Best apps to watch NHL in 2026.

Pluto TV

Pluto TV is the kind of app that many people underestimate but delivers more than it promises.

Isso é 100% grátis, doesn’t ask for a credit card, and works on phones, computers, and Smart TVs.

Simple as that.

Within Pluto TV, there are live sports channels, and during specific times of the season, there are NHL games, replays, and special shows about hockey.

It’s not all on-demand, but it works like traditional TV.

Como usar o Pluto TV

1. Instale o aplicativo.
2. Open it without creating an account (optional).
3. Vá para o Esportes seção.
4. Keep an eye on the canais ao vivo.

The cool thing is that Pluto TV is very popular in North America, which ensures frequent content.

It’s no wonder it always appears when talking about the Best apps to watch NHL in 2026.

Aplicativo da ESPN

Many people think the Aplicativo da ESPN is just for cable subscribers, but that’s not 100% true.

The app offers conteúdo gratuito, including some live games, highlights, and analyses of the NHL.

Additionally, even when there’s no game available, you can watch complete highlights, debates, and programs focused on hockey.

In other words, you can stay completely updated.

How to Use the ESPN App

1. Download the official ESPN app.
2. Criar um free account.
3. Vá para o NHL aba.
4. Look for content marked as Livre.

The interface is organized, fast, and easy to understand.

That’s why it remains a solid option among the Best apps to watch NHL in 2026, especially for those who enjoy information beyond the game.

Gema CBC

Gema CBC is practically a hidden treasure for NHL fans.

It’s the free streaming service of CBC, one of Canada’s largest broadcasters, where hockey is practically a religion.

During the season, CBC broadcasts NHL games for free, especially on Saturdays.

Everything is legal, in great quality, and without hassle.

How to Use CBC Gem

1. Install the CBC Gem app.
2. Crie uma conta gratuita.
3. Vá para o TV ao vivo seção.
4. Look for NHL games.

Even though it’s Canadian, the app is very easy to use.

Without a doubt, it’s one of the Best apps to watch NHL in 2026 if you want real live games.

Tubi

Tubi is better known for movies and series, but many people don’t know that it also invests in free sports content.

During specific periods, you can find classic NHL games, documentaries, and special programs.

It’s not the ideal app for watching all live games, but it’s perfect for those who enjoy history, behind-the-scenes, and great moments in ice hockey.

Como usar o Tubi

1. Baixe o aplicativo.
2. No account creation needed.
3. Vá para o Esportes category.
4. Explore content related to the NHL.

Being free, lightweight, and easy to use, Tubi fits well into the list of Best apps to watch NHL in 2026, especially as a complement.

Escolha seu aplicativo favorito:

1. NHL App (Play Store / App Store)
2. Pluto TV (Play Store / App Store)
3. ESPN (Play Store / App Store)
4. Gema CBC (Play Store / App Store)
5. Tubi (Play Store / App Store)

Conclusão

If you’ve made it this far, you’ve realized that there are plenty of options to watch NHL for free.

Each app has its style, strengths, and limitations, but together they provide a pretty complete experience.

The secret is to combine the apps.

For example, use the NHL App to track statistics, CBC Gem for live games, and Pluto TV for casual content.

This way, you won’t miss much of the season.

The most important thing is to test them out.

All of these apps are free, easy to use, and popular in North America, which ensures constant updates and good streaming quality.

In the end, the Best apps to watch NHL in 2026 are the ones that fit into your routine.

Download, try them out, and enjoy ice hockey without spending a dime.