On December 23, the NHL features 13 games before a holiday break. Key matchups include the Philadelphia Flyers visiting the Pittsburgh Penguins, where both teams are looking to improve their standings. The Penguins have a strong record against the Flyers, winning five of their last seven encounters.

Meanwhile, the Carolina Hurricanes face the Nashville Predators in a battle of contrasting forms, with Carolina coming off a win against the New York Rangers. The San Jose Sharks will take on the Vancouver Canucks, with Vancouver historically dominating this matchup.