If you’re doing some long term planning and want max hockey, this is probably something you want to look into for 2027/28. Will be expensive but can probably do some multi game deals: nhl.com/…/world-cup-of-hockey-2028-to-be-played-i…

Other than that I strongly recommend looking into some WHL and OHL seasons - all young players trying to get into the NHL, so on average the hockey is grittier and more interesting. NHL players have already made it so, though it always draws a crowd, you get more “phone it in” type games in the regular season. Playoffs are another monster entirely in both levels.

I haven’t read the other comments yet, but the budding PWHL has the skill of the NHL with the scrappiness of professional women’s sport. Phenomenal hockey.

Happy travels!