
Looking for reliable ways to watch hockey games out of state without dealing with frustrating blackouts, expensive subscriptions, or geo-restrictions? You’re not alone. Every hockey fan has faced the pain of trying to watch their favorite team from outside their local broadcast region, only to find the game unavailable. Imagine streaming every slapshot, every save, every overtime thriller—no matter where you are.
Whether it’s NHL action, college hockey, or international tournaments, watching games while out of state can feel complicated. But it doesn’t have to be.
Here’s what savvy hockey fans are already doing: using official, clever, and often overlooked methods to bypass blackouts and regional restrictions so they never miss a puck drop.

How to Watch Hockey Games Out of State: Your Streaming Playbook
Cut through the confusion with these smart, reliable ways to stream hockey anywhere.
Use NHL’s Official Streaming Services with VPN Access
NHL.tv and ESPN+ are official streaming platforms for NHL games—but they enforce regional blackouts for local teams. If you’re out of state but still facing blackouts, a VPN can unlock the stream by letting you choose a server outside the blackout zone.
Smart Tip: Always select a VPN server in a neutral region or in a state not affected by your team’s blackout restrictions for uninterrupted access.
Tap Into Regional Sports Network Apps
Many RSNs (Regional Sports Networks) like Bally Sports, MSG Go, or NBC Sports Regional offer mobile and smart TV apps that allow authenticated streaming with a TV provider login. If you have access through family or friends in-state, you can log in remotely and watch.
Pro Move: Use your TV provider’s online streaming credentials to log into the RSN’s app or website for out-of-state access.
Explore Streaming Bundles with Regional Coverage
Some streaming platforms like Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and FuboTV include regional sports networks in select markets. If you subscribe while in-state, you may retain access to your local RSN even after traveling, depending on platform policies.
Use NHL Social Media Channels for Free Highlights and Streams
While full games may not be available for free, the NHL’s official Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter channels frequently livestream select events (All-Star Game, Draft) and post extended highlights shortly after games end.
Watch for: Verified NHL team accounts that sometimes stream pre-season games, prospect tournaments, or behind-the-scenes live coverage.
Check Out International Broadcasters’ Online Streams
International broadcasters like Sportsnet (Canada) or Viaplay (Nordics) may offer free or included streaming for select NHL games online. If you’re traveling abroad, a VPN set to that country can give you access.
Q: Can I legally watch international streams using a VPN? Using a VPN is legal in most regions; accessing content via VPN may breach the broadcaster’s terms of service but isn’t illegal under most laws. Check the platform’s policy.

Stay Ahead: Always Know How to Access Out-of-State Hockey Streams
Set Notifications and Alerts
Subscribe to NHL.com, team websites, and streaming platform newsletters for notifications about free game streams, nationally televised games, or special broadcast events available outside your state.
Join Hockey Fan Communities for Tips
Subreddits like r/hockey, team-specific Reddit forums, Discord servers, and fan groups often discuss legal workarounds for regional restrictions and share last-minute streaming updates.
Combine Platforms for Full Coverage
Use a mix of official streaming services with VPN, RSN apps, national broadcaster apps (like TNT or ABC Sports), and social media streams for maximum game access across leagues and regions.
FAQs About How to Watch Hockey Games Out of State
Is there a way to watch hockey games for free out of state?
Yes—for select events. Some games are streamed nationally on free channels like ABC or available via NHL’s official social channels. Otherwise, highlight packages are free post-game.
Which app streams hockey games if I’m out of state?
Apps like ESPN+, NHL.tv, Bally Sports App, MSG Go, NBC Sports App, and streaming services like YouTube TV (with RSN access) provide streaming options. Pairing with a VPN may expand availability.
What are the best websites to watch hockey online?
Official websites like NHL.com, ESPN.com, Sportsnet.ca, and RSN sites offer streaming access. International broadcasters’ websites can also provide streams with a VPN.
Stay Updated: Streaming Policies and Access Change
Streaming rights and blackout rules shift every season. Follow team and league announcements, broadcaster updates, and streaming service newsletters to stay informed.
Pro Insight: During playoffs, more games are aired nationally—reducing blackouts and making it easier to stream out of state.
Final Buzzer: Watch Hockey Anywhere Without Missing a Play
You don’t have to miss a game because you’re out of state. By combining official streaming services, VPNs, RSN apps, national broadcaster streams, and social media channels, you can enjoy how to watch hockey games out of state—safely, legally, and in high quality.
Get started today: subscribe to the right services, download the apps, set alerts. The next big goal is coming—and you’ll be watching every second, no matter where you are.
Share this guide with fellow hockey fans and help them enjoy every game, even from miles away!