It’s the Minnesota Wild versus the Tampa Bay Lightning at Benchmark International Arena on October 8, 2026. Here’s how to watch live on TV.
- Time: 7:00 PM ET
- Location: Benchmark International Arena
- TV Channels: ESPN Unlimited
- League Package: NHL® CENTER ICE®
How to Watch Minnesota Wild vs. Tampa Bay Lightning on October 8, 2026
You can watch the Tampa Bay Lightning take on the Minnesota Wild live on DIRECTV on ESPN Unlimited on October 8, 2026 at 7:00 PM ET.
Minnesota Wild (2-0-1) at Tampa Bay Lightning (2-1-0) — Game Preview
The Minnesota Wild (2-0-1) travel to Benchmark International Arena to face the Tampa Bay Lightning (2-1-0) on October 8, with Minnesota two games behind in the standings and Tampa Bay four games back.
Kirill Kaprizov leads the Wild with 3 goals, including 1 on the power play, while Nikita Kucherov counters for the Lightning with 4 points from 1 goal and 3 assists. Quinn Hughes adds depth for Minnesota with 4 points, including 3 assists, while Kucherov’s teammate, Brayden Point, supports with his own offensive contributions.
Both teams face challenges with injuries, as Minnesota is without Filip Gustavsson due to hip surgery, while Tampa Bay misses Yanni Gourde, also recovering from hip surgery. These absences could impact the dynamics of the game tonight.
National TV
ESPN Unlimited
League Packages
What Time is the Minnesota Wild vs. Tampa Bay Lightning Game Today?
The Minnesota Wild vs. Tampa Bay Lightning game starts at 7:00 PM ET.
Where Can I Watch Minnesota Wild vs. Tampa Bay Lightning?
You can watch Minnesota Wild vs. Tampa Bay Lightning on ESPN Unlimited and NHL® CENTER ICE®
Players to Watch: Minnesota Wild vs. Tampa Bay Lightning
Minnesota Wild
Kirill Kaprizov — LW. From the left wing, Kirill Kaprizov has scored 3 goals, including 1 on the power play, across the opening games. He has taken 9 shots, demonstrating his offensive presence on the ice. His performance is crucial for Minnesota as they look to maintain their strong start.
Quinn Hughes — D. Quinn Hughes contributes from the blue line with 4 points, including 3 assists and 1 goal. His plus/minus rating of +2 reflects his effectiveness in both offensive and defensive situations. Hughes’s ability to facilitate plays is a key asset for the Wild.
Tampa Bay Lightning
Nikita Kucherov — RW. Nikita Kucherov operates from the right wing, accumulating 4 points with 1 goal and 3 assists. He has taken 5 shots on goal, maintaining a balanced offensive approach. His contributions are pivotal for Tampa Bay’s attack.
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