How to watch Stanley Pup 2026: The NHL’s adorable puppy showdown returns tonight

Tonight, The National Hockey League’s (NHL) cutest competition is back bringing together adoptable dogs in celebration of the Stanley Cup, in hopes of finding forever homes for shelter pups. “This event has quickly become a fan-favorite tradition, blending the competitive spirit of the NHL with the mission of finding homes for animals in need,” NHL president of content and events Steve Mayer said in a statement. “When Patrick Kanine, Cole Pawfield, Quinn Chews and others find families because of Stanley Pup, we know that this show has true meaning.” The event is highly anticipated indeed, with a recent promo video posted to the NHL’s official Instagram gaining over 25,000 likes in two days. For the friendly competition, all 32 NHL teams will each be represented by a dog who will be up for adoption through the NHL’s adoption partner Brandywine Valley SPCA. Contestants boast creative Hockey-inspired names like Jack Chews, representing the New Jersey Devils, Matthew Schaefurry, representing the New York Islanders, and Macklin Celewienie, representing the San Jose Sharks. Creator of the photo-documentary series The Dogist, Elias Weiss Friedman, will also be joining the Stanley Pup as an anchor, showcasing adoption follow-up segments that highlight the competition’s real world impact. With play-by-play commentary from Mark Shunock and Chris Rose, the 90-minute special is set to air June 8 in the US at 9:30 p.m ET on TruTV and HBO Max. In Canada, the special will premiere at 8 p.m. ET on Sportsnet 360. After the national broadcast, fans who missed the special will still be able to watch. Viewers may watch the special via the NHL’s YouTube channel on June 9, via the NHL Network on June 10, and those in the Washington area will be able to tune in via Monumental Sports Network (MNMT) on June 15.