Franchise Mode
Long-term GM and dynasty mode: run a team or a custom/expansion league across many seasons — trades, drafts, contracts, scouting and staff. NHL 27 Franchise Mode is one of the series pillars expected to return — the detail below is confirmed for NHL 26, the immediately prior title, and is a strong guide to what the mode will offer until EA details the game on July 16, 2026.
What Franchise Mode includes
These are the parts of Franchise Mode carried in NHL 26, each of which the mode is built around:
- Expansion Draft — Build a 33rd team or a full custom league with editable rosters.
- Trades & trade logic — Negotiate deals against AI general managers under the salary cap.
- Amateur Draft & scouting — Scout prospects, run the draft, develop your pipeline.
- Contracts & finances — Manage the cap, contract terms and team budget.
- Coaching staff & lines — Hire staff, set line combinations and strategies.
- Multi-season simulation — Simulate or play out full seasons over many years.
What changed most recently
Historically one of the more static modes; NHL 26 shipped modest tweaks. Community wishlists prioritize a team creator/rebranding tool and deeper editing.
What to expect in NHL 27
NHL 27 Franchise Mode is the series' slowest-changing pillar, so the trade, draft and cap systems above are the safest bet to return; the community's headline ask is a team creator and the rumored GM Connected online league. That stability is exactly why NHL 27 Franchise Mode is a safe place to sink a long multi-season save. We will flag any additions the moment EA details the mode.
Related: browse all NHL 27 game modes · read the beginner walkthrough, or see how player ratings feed every mode.