The NHL expands for the first time since 2000, adding the Vegas Golden Knights.
The Edmonton Oilers adjust their colors to a darker blue and brighter orange.
Events
The NHL debuts two new events that stage games overseas. The NHL China Games will see the Kings and Canucks in Shanghai and Beijing for a pair of preseason games while the NHL Global Series will has the Avalanche and Senators meeting in Stockholm for two regular season match-ups in November.
To mark the league's 100th birthday, the NHL100 Classic brings the Senators and Canadiens together in Canada's capital for a special outdoor regular season game in December.
On New Year's Day, the Sabres and Rangers face off in the 10th NHL Winter Classic at Citi Field in New York. Sabres are designated home team due to Rangers' agreement with the state.
In late January, Tampa hosts NHL All-Star Weekend for the second time since 1999.
The NHL Stadium Series continues for the fifth year as the Capitals and Maple Leafs meet outdoors at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland in March.
Anniversaries
The NHL continues its centennial celebration with players wearing patches on their sleeves until Dec. 16, 2017 — the 100th anniversary of the first NHL game.
The New Jersey Devils mark 35 years since arriving from Colorado in 1982.
The Tampa Bay Lightning mark 25 years since franchise debut in 1992, wearing a patch on their home sweaters until after the 2018 NHL All-Star Game when it's worn on both.
The Dallas Stars mark 25 years since arriving from Minnesota in 1993, wearing a patch on their sweaters all season.
The Carolina Hurricanes mark 20 years since arriving from Hartford in 1997.
The Nashville Predators mark 20 years since franchise debut in 1998.
Commemorations
The Vegas Golden Knights mark their inaugural season with a patch worn on their sweaters all season.
The Dallas Stars honor Jere Lehtinen by retiring his No. 26 sweater on Nov. 24, 2017.
The Tampa Bay Lightning honor Vincent Lecavalier by retiring his No. 4 sweater on Feb. 10, 2018.