Can I watch NHL without Sportsnet?

Yes — but you probably won’t get every NHL game without Sportsnet, especially if you’re in Canada.

Best practical options:

1. CBC / CBC Gem — Some Saturday “Hockey Night in Canada” games are typically available free in Canada. Good if you only want occasional national games.
2. TSN or RDS — These may carry regional NHL games for certain Canadian teams, depending on where you live. Blackouts can apply.
3. Prime Video or other national partners — Some national NHL packages may be carried outside Sportsnet depending on the current Canadian rights setup, so check the current NHL/TV schedule for your region.
4. TVA Sports — French-language NHL coverage in Canada may be an option for some national/playoff games.
5. ESPN+, Hulu, ABC, TNT/Max — If you’re in the U.S., NHL coverage is split across these services/networks rather than Sportsnet.
6. NHL.tv or local international broadcaster — Outside Canada and the U.S., availability depends heavily on country.

Bottom line: If you’re in Canada and want the most NHL coverage, Sportsnet/Sportsnet+ is usually the main route. If you only want selected games, your team’s regional games, French coverage, or U.S./international coverage, you may be able to watch without it. Check your team’s official schedule and your postal-code/region blackouts before subscribing.