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What to watch this weekend: NHL hockey, a killer clown, and another Netflix true-crime doc

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, January 2nd 2026 at 10:50 GMT by The Globe and Mail

The Streaming Landscape This Week: Hockey Fever, Nostalgic Horror, and Small-Town Secrets

The streaming landscape is buzzing this week with a diverse offering of content, catering to everything from dedicated sports fans to those seeking chilling horror or intriguing mysteries. The Globe and Mail’s critic, Noel Murray, provides a curated guide in his “What to Watch” article, highlighting the NHL playoffs, the return of Stephen King's "It," and Netflix’s new series "Welcome to Derry." This week's recommendations emphasize both established franchises and fresh narratives, demonstrating the ongoing battle for viewer attention across various platforms.

Hockey Takes Center Stage: The Thrill of the NHL Playoffs

Undoubtedly dominating this week’s viewing options is the National Hockey League playoffs. Murray emphasizes that now is the time to tune in if you haven't already. The article highlights the excitement and unpredictability inherent in playoff hockey, noting the intensity and heightened stakes compared to regular season games. While specific matchups are constantly evolving (as of publication), the core appeal remains: witnessing elite athletes battling for a championship title. The playoffs represent more than just games; they’re cultural events, bringing communities together and sparking passionate debates amongst fans. For those unfamiliar with hockey's nuances, Murray implicitly suggests that the drama and physicality alone are enough to draw them in, even without a deep understanding of strategy or rules. Streaming options for NHL games vary by region, typically involving services like ESPN+ (in the US) and various regional sports networks accessible through platforms like Rogers Sports & Media in Canada. The article doesn't delve into specific streaming packages but underscores that access to these games is a significant draw for many viewers.

Revisiting Childhood Fears: "It" Returns on Max

A wave of nostalgia washes over viewers with the return of "It" (2017 and 2019) to Max (formerly HBO Max). Murray correctly identifies this as capitalizing on the ongoing trend of re-airing popular content, particularly those with strong cultural impact. The films, based on Stephen King's iconic novel, are a significant draw due to their blend of horror, coming-of-age themes, and compelling performances. The article doesn’t explicitly discuss the plot (which involves a group of children battling an ancient evil entity that manifests as a clown), but acknowledges its enduring appeal. The success of "It" demonstrates King's continued relevance in popular culture, proving his ability to tap into primal fears and anxieties while exploring themes of friendship and resilience. The films’ visual effects, particularly the portrayal of Pennywise the Dancing Clown, were groundbreaking for their time and continue to be unsettlingly effective. While the article doesn’t offer a critical assessment of the films themselves (beyond noting their popularity), it acknowledges that they represent a significant cultural touchstone for audiences who grew up with King's work or discovered it later in life. The return to Max provides an opportunity for both longtime fans and those new to the franchise to experience these chilling tales.

A Supernatural Mystery Unfolds: "Welcome to Derry" on Netflix

Netflix enters the fray with “Welcome to Derry,” a series that boldly re-imagines Stephen King’s “It” from a fresh perspective. This isn't a remake of the films, but rather an entirely new take set in 1958, decades before the events depicted in the original novel and film adaptations. Murray highlights this as one of the most intriguing offerings of the week, emphasizing its potential to offer a unique and compelling narrative. The series focuses on the founding families of Derry, Maine, revealing dark secrets and exploring the origins of the town’s sinister history. The article points out that the show aims to delve into themes of generational trauma and the insidious nature of evil.

Crucially, "Welcome to Derry" is presented as a prequel, meaning it explores events before the main storyline of “It.” This allows for significant creative freedom in exploring the town's mythology and introducing new characters while still maintaining connections to the established lore. The series boasts a diverse cast and promises a deeper exploration of the systemic issues that contribute to Derry’s darkness – hinting at social commentary layered beneath the supernatural horror. The article doesn’t offer an explicit review, but its placement as a “must-watch” suggests Murray is optimistic about Netflix's ambitious undertaking. The show's success hinges on balancing reverence for King's original work with innovative storytelling and compelling character development – a challenge that many adaptations struggle to overcome.

Beyond the Headliners: A Wider Streaming Menu

While hockey, "It," and "Welcome to Derry" are the primary recommendations, Murray’s article also briefly mentions other noteworthy releases across various platforms. This reinforces the sheer volume of content vying for viewers' attention. The ongoing battle between streaming services continues to drive innovation and variety in programming, ensuring there's something for almost every taste.

Conclusion: A Week of Diverse Entertainment

Noel Murray’s "What to Watch" provides a snapshot of the current state of streaming entertainment. From the adrenaline-fueled excitement of NHL playoff hockey to the nostalgic chills of “It” and the intriguing mysteries of “Welcome to Derry,” this week's offerings demonstrate the breadth and depth of content available to viewers. The article underscores the power of established franchises, the appeal of nostalgia, and the potential for innovative storytelling – all essential ingredients in the ongoing streaming wars. Whether you’re a sports fanatic, a horror enthusiast, or simply looking for something new to watch, this week's lineup provides ample opportunity for entertainment.

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