Happy Saturday, solvers! Today’s NYT Connections is a fun mix of cars, sports bar snacks, hockey teams, and sky-high ideas. The puzzle has a nice balance: two groups feel very “pop culture obvious,” one tests your hockey knowledge, and the last one leans on wordplay. You’re going to want to trust your gut on the first two, then slow down to think about the trickier sky-related words.

NYT Connections Puzzle: 20 September 2025

NYT Connections Hints: 20 September 2025

Category 1:

  • An American brand with a name that sounds like a quick movement to avoid something.
  • A carmaker that shares its name with a famous U.S. president.
  • Known for trucks and muscle cars, one of the most iconic U.S. automakers.
  • Brand named after a rugged male sheep — often seen on pickup trucks.

Category 2:

  • The crunchy thing you can’t eat just one of.
  • Perfect partner for number one — creamy or cheesy, and perfect for dipping.
  • Hot and crispy, often served as a basket with ketchup.
  • Comes sauced, spicy, and is the ultimate game-day finger food.

Category 3:

  • A water bird that’s also an Anaheim hockey mascot.
  • A term for someone piloting an aircraft, also a Philadelphia hockey player.
  • A political figure that represents a legislative district — and an Ottawa player.
  • Celestial body and Dallas hockey team name.

Category 4:

  1. A controlled jump from a great height, often into water or air.
  2. A small songbird known for its cheerful dawn call.
  3. Something that shoots upward fast — and can launch into space.
  4. A very tall building that touches the clouds.

NYT Connections Answers: 20 September 2025

Category 1:

Category 2:

Category 3:

Category 4:

Conclusion — Today’s Theme

Theme: Today’s puzzle is about movement and atmosphere. Cars and hockey players bring action, snacks bring the sports bar vibe, and “sky ___” lifts everything up — literally. This one feels more playful than tricky, making it a perfect puzzle for a lazy Saturday.

If you’re solving with friends, let one person take the snacks first (they’re usually easiest), then clear the car brands, and save the sky-related group for last — those can get deceptively mixed up.

Previous NYT Connections: