Golden Knights and Stars to Battle Outdoors in 2027

The Vegas Golden Knights are gearing up for an exciting outdoor matchup as they head to Texas for their third outdoor game in franchise history. Announced on Thursday, the Golden Knights will face the Dallas Stars in the upcoming NHL Stadium Series at the iconic AT&T Stadium on February 20, 2027. This event will be historic as it will mark the first-ever hockey game played at the venue, typically known for hosting football games, concerts, and other major events.

The Importance of the NHL Stadium Series

The NHL Stadium Series is a unique event that brings outdoor hockey to fans, serving as a celebration of the sport's storied history. The decision to hold the game at AT&T Stadium is significant, not only for the teams involved but also for hockey in general, as it showcases the growing popularity of the sport in areas outside traditional northern markets. The Stars were previously announced as the hosts for the 2027 Stadium Series in November, and now the matchup with the Golden Knights sets the stage for a thrilling competition.

Previous Outdoor Games for the Golden Knights

The Golden Knights have previously participated in two outdoor games, making their debut against the Colorado Avalanche in a scenic setting at Lake Tahoe in 2021, followed by a matchup against the Seattle Kraken in Washington in 2024. Each outdoor game offers a different experience, where players and fans alike soak in the atmosphere and elements of outdoor hockey, further contributing to the sport's expansion across diverse locations.

Outdoor Game History in Texas

The occupation of outdoor hockey games in Texas has seen limited activity. The only previous outdoor game held in the state was during the 2020 Winter Classic, which took place on New Year's Day and featured the Dallas Stars going head-to-head with the Nashville Predators. The return of the NHL to Texas for this special event signifies the league's commitment to growing the sport in the southern United States.

Excitement Builds Ahead of the 2027 Matchup

As fans look forward to the outdoor spectacle in 2027, attention also shifts to the current season, with the Stars and Golden Knights set to play their first matchup of the season hours after the announcement. The two teams will meet again on March 10 and March 22, 2027. Both squads are in contention for the playoffs, creating an atmosphere of competitiveness and urgency as they vie for a postseason spot in the Western Conference.

A Look at the Teams

The Golden Knights have had a stellar start to their franchise history, making the playoffs seven times in their first eight years, including a remarkable Stanley Cup victory. Aiming to continue their successful trajectory, the Knights' management is heavily focused on maintaining their status as a top contender in the league.

The Dallas Stars, on the other hand, have a rich history, winning their last championship in 1999 with legendary players Ed Belfour and Mike Modano. More recently, they made a strong run to the Stanley Cup Final in 2020, followed by consecutive appearances in the Western Conference Finals. Their history of playoff confrontations with the Golden Knights, including defeating them in the 2020 championship series, positions this rivalry as particularly significant in the context of both teams’ goals.

Playoff Race Heating Up

As of Thursday, both the Stars and Golden Knights are situated within the playoff picture for the 2026 season, with the Stars currently in third place in the Central Division and the Golden Knights leading the Pacific Division. The upcoming games against each other will be crucial in determining playoff positions, and fans from both sides are excitedly anticipating what could be a decisive showdown.

Conclusion: A Historic Game on the Horizon

With the NHL Stadium Series game set for February 20, 2027, the anticipation continues to build for what promises to be an iconic outdoor hockey experience. The matchup between the Golden Knights and Stars not only represents a chance for spectacular play and fan engagement but also highlights the growing significance of outdoor hockey in the league’s outreach efforts. As the date draws nearer, both teams will be looking to assert their dominance, making this much more than just another regular-season game.