Free NHL Streaming Apps You Need to Try

If there’s one thing Canadians take seriously, it’s hockey.

Who hasn’t cheered during a Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Montreal Canadiens game, or held their breath during an epic showdown between the Edmonton Oilers and Calgary Flames?

These games are pure excitement!

And the best part: nowadays, you can follow everything from your phone or tablet without spending a dime.

That’s right — here are the best apps to watch NHL for free, in a 100% legal and simple way.

The good thing is there’s no beating around the bush: I’ll show you the 5 best apps, how to download them, how to use them, and what each one offers.

All with a light touch, as if we’re chatting over coffee (or a beer, depending on the game).

And yes, they all work in Canada, with live broadcasts, highlights, scores, and even post-game analyses.

NHL App

This is the “father” of hockey apps.

The NHL App is the official app of the league, so there’s no mistake.

It’s free, lightweight, and brings practically everything a fan needs: live scores, complete statistics, videos, news, and free broadcasts of some special games.

The app also has a wonderful feature: you choose your favorite team and receive personalized notifications for every goal, win, or breaking news.

Seriously, it’s impossible to miss any important play.

In addition, you can watch HD replays, clips of the best moments, and exclusive interviews with players and coaches.

How to download and install:

• Go to Google Play (Android) or App Store (iOS).
• Search for “NHL” — make sure the developer is “National Hockey League.”
• Click on Download and open the app.
• Create your account (or use Google/Apple login).
• Set up your favorite team, and you’re all set!

After that, you can go to Gamecenter and choose the game of the day.

On the home screen, you’ll find highlights, and in the video tab, you can find all the highlights.

Best apps to watch NHL for free? This one is indispensable.

CBC Gem

Now, if you want to watch complete and LIVE games for free, CBC Gem is the one to beat.

For those living in Canada, it’s one of the only 100% legal and free platforms broadcasting games from Hockey Night in Canada every Saturday.

The app is very easy to use and streams in high quality, directly from CBC.

In addition to the games, you can watch the network’s sports programs, such as reviews, analyses, and behind-the-scenes content.

And the best part: you don’t need to pay a subscription to see the basics.

Tutorial to use:

• Go to the Play Store or App Store and search for “CBC Gem”;
• Download and open the app;
• Create an account (optional — you can use it without logging in for open games);
• Find the Sports tab and click on “Hockey Night in Canada”.

Another advantage is that the app allows you to re-watch past games, so if you missed that Leafs vs. Canucks game, you can catch up later.

Smooth transition, reliable content, and no risk of piracy.

This one definitely deserves to be among the best apps to watch NHL for free.

Prime Video

Yes! Amazon Prime Video has also become a meeting point for NHL fans since it started streaming Prime Monday Night Hockey — an exclusive partnership in Canada.

The coolest part is that Prime offers 30 days free, so you can enjoy the season without spending anything at first.

The design is great, the quality is amazing, and there are even games with multiple camera angles.

And of course, there are legendary commentators in the studio.

In addition to Monday Night Hockey, you’ll find replays, highlights, and special behind-the-scenes programs.

How to watch:

• Download Amazon Prime Video (Android or iOS).
• Log in with your Amazon account (or create one in seconds).
• Use the free trial period.
• Search for “NHL” in the app and select “Monday Night Hockey”.
• Watch the games that air every Monday.

Prime has emerged as an official alternative for those who want to watch quality hockey without hassle, and it definitely makes the list of best apps to watch NHL for free, especially for those who love watching with a “premium broadcast” feel.

YouTube

I doubt anyone doesn’t have YouTube installed on their phone, right?

But what not everyone might know is that the official NHL channel constantly posts complete highlights of all games, interviews, analyses, and even short documentaries.

All free, legal, and in high resolution.

Want to see McDavid’s insane goal in overtime? It’ll be there.

Want to relive all the goals from the round? That’s there too.

The community is active, the comments are funny, and the algorithm always delivers more hockey content to you.

How to make the most of YouTube:

• Download (or update) the official YouTube app.
• In the search bar, type “NHL Official Channel”.
• Click on Subscribe.
• Turn on the notification bell.
• Explore playlists by team and type of content.

You can watch on your phone, TV, or even sync with Chromecast.

It’s that app that never fails — easy, useful, and essential.

And as it should be, it also fits nicely into the category of best apps to watch NHL for free.

Sportsnet App

Last but certainly not least, the Sportsnet App is a Canadian option that aggregates videos, free highlights, and daily NHL news.

It’s ideal for those who want to follow not just the score, but also all the journalistic coverage: player statistics, updated standings, and even post-game interviews.

The app pairs well with the others — think of it as a “news center + short videos”.

If you don’t want to miss anything, it’s good to have it installed.

How to download and install:

• Access the Google Play Store or App Store.
• Search for “Sportsnet”.
• Download the app and open it.
• Go to the “NHL” section and explore videos and scores.

Even when games aren’t live, Sportsnet stands out for its free and updated content.

Notifications are handy for those who want to know scores in real-time and results from Canadian divisions.

Choose Your Favorite App:

1. NHL App (Play Store / AppStore)
2. CBC Gem (Play Store / AppStore)
3. Prime Video App (Play Store / AppStore)
4. YouTube (Play Store / AppStore)
5. Sportsnet App (Play Store / AppStore)

Conclusion

So that’s it — a complete list of the best apps to watch NHL for free in 2026.

If you really love hockey, it’s worth trying each one: the NHL App for official information; CBC Gem for live games; Prime Video for Monday night hockey; YouTube for memorable plays; and Sportsnet to stay updated on everything.

In the end, the good thing is that you can create your personalized experience, combining apps and schedules and turning any place into a mini “Hockey Night”!

Hockey is more than just a sport — it’s a national passion, and now it’s literally in the palm of your hand.

So, which one are you going to download first?