Sling vs DirecTV vs Fubo: Best Value for NHL Network April 2026
| Sling Select + Sports Extra | $29.99 + $11 | |
 | Sling Blue + Sports Extra | $45.99 + $11 |
 | DirecTV MySports Pack | $69.99 |
| Sling Blue & Orange + Sports Extra | $60.99 + $11 | |
 | Fubo Elite | $83.99 |
| Fubo Deluxe | $103.99 |
| DirecTV Premier | $169.99 |
What is coming up on NHL Network in April 2026?
In April 2026, NHL Network is headlined by the final, frantic push for the Stanley Cup Playoffs, featuring crucial "Showcase" broadcasts including the Tampa Bay Lightning at Buffalo Sabres (April 7) and the Boston Bruins at Columbus Blue Jackets (April 12). The month’s schedule is further bolstered by the 24/7 coverage of the 2025–26 regular season’s conclusion on April 16, followed immediately by the kickoff of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs on April 18. Fans can tune in for daily expert analysis on NHL Tonight and NHL Now, featuring insiders like Kevin Weekes and E.J. Hradek, as they break down major headlines such as the Buffalo Sabres ending their 14-year playoff drought and Peter DeBoer’s debut as head coach of the New York Islanders. Viewers can also expect specialized segments like the "NHL Awards Watch" poll and "NHL Goal Chase," alongside a deep dive into the 2026 NCAA Frozen Four prospects. Rounding out the month is the nightly fast-paced recap on Quick Pitch, which provides the definitive look at every goal and overtime thriller as the quest for the Cup moves into the high-stakes first round.
What is the NHL Network channel?
NHL Network is a sports-oriented cable and satellite television network that is a joint venture between the National Hockey League (NHL) and NBCUniversal. Dedicated to providing broadcast coverage of ice hockey, the network features live game telecasts from the NHL, including analysis programs, specials and documentaries.
How can I watch the NHL Network without cable?
If you have cut the cord, you can still catch every power play and highlight reel on the NHL network using a live TV streaming service. However, because this is a specialty channel, it is rarely included in "standard" base plans.
Follow these steps to get started:
- Choose a compatible streaming service: Sign up for a live TV provider that carries the NHL Network. The primary options are Sling(cheapest), Fubo (best for sports variety), or DirecTV Stream (best for regional sports networks).
- Select the correct package or add-on:
- For Sling TV: You must select the "Orange" or "Blue" base plan and add the "Sports Extra" package.
- For Fubo: You typically need the "Elite" plan or the "Sports Plus with NFL Redzone" add-on.
- For DirecTV Stream: You must choose the "Ultimate" package or higher (it is not in the base "Entertainment" package).
- Install the app on your device: Download the streaming app for your chosen service on your smart device, such as a Roku, Amazon Fire Stick, Apple TV or Smart TV.
- Log in and search for "NHL Network": Open the app, sign in with your new credentials, and use the search bar or channel guide to find the NHL Network. We recommend adding it to your "Favorites" list for easy access later.
Where can I watch it for free?
You can access the NHL Network for free through the five-day free trials of leading streaming services Fubo and DirecTV.
READ MORE: How to get a five-day free pass with Fubo
Sling TV also carry it but only as a paid add-on.
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If you are out of the country and would like to watch upcoming NHL Network content on your favoured streaming service, you can do so by bypassing geo-restrictions by using a Virtual Private Network (VPN).
READ MORE: The best streaming VPNs for watching sports
