The days are getting shorter, and the sound of skates on ice is just around the corner. The Tampa Bay Lightning have officially released their 2025-26 preseason schedule, and it’s time to take a closer look at what’s in store for the Bolts. This year’s preseason slate offers a fascinating glimpse into the team’s potential and the challenges that lie ahead.
The Lightning will kick things off with a two-game road trip, facing off against the Carolina Hurricanes and the Nashville Predators. These back-to-back games will be a solid early test for the team, allowing the coaching staff to evaluate new line combinations and defensive pairings. The home crowd will get their first look at the 2025-26 squad when the Lightning host the Hurricanes and Predators at Amalie Arena. These home games will be a great opportunity for the Bolts to build momentum before the regular season begins.
Atlantic Division Showdown: Lightning Gearing Up for a Tough Battle
The most intriguing part of the preseason schedule is the three-game set against the Florida Panthers. With two of these games being played in Tampa and Orlando, and the final one on the road, this series will be a preview of the intense rivalry we can expect to see in the regular season. The Panthers are projected to take the top spot in the Atlantic Division, meaning the Lightning will be in a fierce battle with the Toronto Maple Leafs and Ottawa Senators for playoff positioning. These preseason games against the Panthers will be a crucial measuring stick for the Bolts, providing a clear indication of where they stand against one of the top teams in the league.
Here is the full Tampa Bay Lightning preseason schedule:
- Monday, September 22nd, 7:00 PM EDT: at Carolina Hurricanes, Lenovo Center, Raleigh
- Tuesday, September 23rd, 8:00 PM EDT: at Nashville Predators, Bridgestone Arena, Nashville
- Friday, September 26th, 7:00 PM EDT: vs. Carolina Hurricanes, Amalie Arena, Tampa
- Saturday, September 27th, 7:00 PM EDT: vs. Nashville Predators, Amalie Arena, Tampa
- Tuesday, September 30th, 7:00 PM EDT: vs. Florida Panthers, Kia Center, Orlando
- Thursday, October 2nd, 7:00 PM EDT: vs. Florida Panthers, Amalie Arena, Tampa
- Saturday, October 4th, 7:00 PM EDT: at Florida Panthers, Amerant Bank Arena, Sunrise
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