The New York Times has released the latest installment of its Connections Sports Edition, designated puzzle number 606, for May 22, 2026. As with previous editions, this version of the popular word game is designed to challenge sports fans with category-based word associations.
Today’s puzzle specifically requires a working knowledge of hockey. Players must identify groups of four related terms drawn from the world of professional and amateur hockey, including terminology, team references, player names, or statistical categories.
The original Connections game, which debuted in the NYT Games section, asks players to find common threads among 16 words. The Sports Edition adapts that format to focus exclusively on athletic terminology, league history, and sports culture.
Puzzle Structure and Difficulty
Each puzzle presents 16 words or short phrases. The player’s goal is to sort them into four distinct categories of four items each. Categories can range from straightforward (such as team names or equipment) to more obscure references (such as specific rule violations or retired jersey numbers).
For puzzle #606, some categories may involve hockey positions, penalties, famous arenas, or historical milestones. The NYT does not officially reveal the categories in advance, but the hints provided in companion articles help guide solvers without giving away answers.
Hint System and Available Resources
As with previous Sports Edition puzzles, hints are released alongside the daily game. These hints typically describe one or two categories in an indirect manner, allowing players to narrow down their choices without fully solving the puzzle.
For example, a hint might refer to a group of words that all relate to a specific hockey statistic, or to a set of terms associated with a particular league rule. The final answers are published later in the day for those who wish to verify their solutions.
Implications for Daily Puzzle Solvers
For regular players of the NYT Connections Sports Edition, the hockey-focused format represents a deliberate variation in difficulty and subject matter. Sports fans who follow multiple leagues may find some puzzles easier than others, depending on their breadth of knowledge.
The NYT has not announced any changes to the release schedule or format for the Sports Edition. Puzzle #606 follows the established pattern of daily releases, with new puzzles appearing each morning. The game remains free to play on the NYT website and mobile app, though a subscription may be required for full access to archived puzzles.
Looking ahead, future editions are expected to continue rotating through major sports including baseball, football, basketball, and soccer, alongside niche topics such as motorsports, golf, or Olympic events. The NYT has not indicated whether the Sports Edition will ever expand to include international sports or esports categories.
