NHL Season 2025-26 Preview: Strengths, Weaknesses, and Key Factors for All 32 Teams

1. Edmonton Oilers

Biggest Strength:

The Oilers boast a significantly enhanced supporting cast, a crucial factor for any team aiming for a championship. GM Stan Bowman expertly navigated cap constraints this offseason, bringing in Andrew Mangiapane and trading for Isaac Howard, the reigning Hobey Baker Award winner. These additions, combined with Matt Savoie, provide promising, cost-effective top-nine forwards, enhancing their chances for a third consecutive Stanley Cup Final appearance with a hopeful change in outcome.

Biggest Concern:

A primary concern for the Oilers is their defensive consistency, a recurring issue in their last two playoff runs. Breakdowns in defensive structure and inconsistent goaltending from Stuart Skinner have often led to mid-series adjustments. This pattern was evident last postseason, where they effectively neutralized the Golden Knights and Stars but struggled defensively against the Panthers in the Final.

This Season Hinges On:

This season hinges on whether the Oilers can finally capture the Stanley Cup. While securing Connor McDavid`s two-year extension resolves one major question, the larger challenge is how a championship win – or a third consecutive failed attempt – will influence their offseason strategy, particularly with numerous key pending UFAs, including three top-six defensemen and both goaltenders.

Most Likely Award Winner:

Connor McDavid (Hart Trophy)

Fantasy Outlook:

Beyond the elite duo of McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, Evan Bouchard and Jake Walman are projected as top-10 and top-20 fantasy defensemen. Trent Frederic, potentially seeing ice time with McDavid, presents sleeper value in leagues emphasizing physical play (hits, blocks).

Bold Prediction:

Connor McDavid will sign a team-friendly three-year contract extension.

2. Carolina Hurricanes

Biggest Strength:

Carolina enjoys exceptional depth both offensively and defensively, a testament to GM Eric Tulsky`s efforts. The acquisition of Nikolaj Ehlers, a highly sought-after free agent, bolsters their top-six winger corps, while trading for K`Andre Miller significantly strengthens their blue line. These new talents join a formidable group including Seth Jarvis (coming off a 32-goal season), a nearly point-per-game Sebastian Aho, and the all-around solid defenseman Jaccob Slavin. Coach Rod Brind`Amour`s ability to maximize his team`s potential saw them finish top-10 in both offense and defense last season. While a long-term solution at second-line center is needed, the boosted lineup depth makes Carolina more potent than ever.

Biggest Concern:

A significant question mark for the Hurricanes is their goaltending tandem. They`re returning with Frederik Andersen and Pyotr Kochetkov, both of whom had sub-.900 save percentages last season, placing Carolina 24th in the league (the lowest among playoff teams). Andersen`s career has been plagued by injuries, limiting him to 38 appearances over the past two seasons, leading Kochetkov to see more action. However, Kochetkov hasn`t definitively claimed the No. 1 spot. The issue is consistency and trust; Coach Brind`Amour needs a reliable presence nightly. While Carolina`s high-end defensive unit can mitigate some deficiencies, they cannot achieve their full potential without solid goaltending support.

This Season Hinges On:

This season hinges on Carolina`s ability to translate its regular-season prowess into deep playoff success. The Hurricanes seemingly possess all the ingredients for a championship contender, yet they consistently fall short in crucial moments (e.g., Eastern Conference finals) due to offensive slumps and defensive disarray. This repeated pattern raises questions about their playoff mentality. Cup-winning teams cultivate a resilient mindset for difficult stretches, and Carolina must find this within themselves. Another excellent 82-game performance followed by a spring disappointment will not suffice; the intensity from November must carry through to June.

Most Likely Award Winner:

Jaccob Slavin (Lady Byng Trophy)

Fantasy Outlook:

Ehlers, known for his strong per-minute fantasy production, could see an expanded role. Miller and Alexander Nikishin possess the potential to become fantasy mainstays if given optimal deployment on the blue line.

Bold Prediction:

The Hurricanes will win the Eastern Conference.

3. Vegas Golden Knights

Biggest Strength:

The Golden Knights should have no trouble scoring goals, a strength evident last season when they ranked in the top five for goals per game and second on the power play. The addition of Mitch Marner is a significant boost, potentially forming one of the NHL`s strongest top lines by pairing him with Jack Eichel and Ivan Barbashev. Marner`s arrival could also supercharge their power play, creating a formidable unit featuring Tomas Hertl, Shea Theodore, Mark Stone, Eichel, and Marner.

Biggest Concern:

Filling the void left by Alex Pietrangelo is the team`s primary concern. While the two-time Stanley Cup winner hasn`t ruled out a return this season, the reality is he could miss the entire year, or even more, recovering from femur reconstruction. Pietrangelo`s absence deprives the Golden Knights of a top-pairing defenseman capable of leading in average ice time, trusted in all situations, and consistently contributing 30-50 points per season.

This Season Hinges On:

This season hinges on their ability to successfully adapt and execute Plan B or C when necessary. Their second-round playoff exit to the Oilers last season highlighted an inability to make effective adjustments. After allowing nine goals in the first two games and winning Game 3, Vegas was shut out for the remainder of the series, including a one-goal overtime loss that ended their season, demonstrating a critical weakness in adapting mid-series.

Most Likely Award Winner:

Mitch Marner (Art Ross Trophy)

Fantasy Outlook:

Playing top-line minutes with Eichel and Marner, Barbashev is projected to achieve around 30 goals and 35 assists in 2025-26, making him a valuable sleeper pick in later rounds. With Akira Schmid promoted to backup, Adin Hill is poised to retain the No. 1 goaltending role for a very strong Vegas team.

Bold Prediction:

The Golden Knights will lose in the Western Conference finals.

4. Florida Panthers

Biggest Strength:

Florida`s ultimate strength is its proven system, which has propelled them to back-to-back Stanley Cup championships. While their enviable roster depth is foundational, it`s how they maximize collective effort with seemingly minimal individual strain that defines their success. The Panthers employ a relentless forecheck, forcing turnovers and driving offensive attacks. They are relentlessly opportunistic, and their meticulous neutral zone coverage effectively shuts down even the league`s most elite scorers. This organizational approach ensures every player finds a role and excels, making everyone`s contribution vital.

Biggest Concern:

The significant absences of Aleksander Barkov and Matthew Tkachuk loom large. Captain Barkov suffered a torn ACL and MCL last month, sidelining him for seven to nine months. Additionally, Matthew Tkachuk will miss several weeks into the regular season recovering from offseason adductor muscle surgery. Losing two of their top three scorers early will severely test the Panthers. How Florida manages these key injuries will determine their chances for a third consecutive Stanley Cup run. Anton Lundell has a prime opportunity to elevate his game, while increased responsibility will fall on Sam Bennett, Sam Reinhart, Carter Verhaeghe, and goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky to perform at their peak.

This Season Hinges On:

This season hinges on the Panthers` fortitude. Following three consecutive Cup Final appearances, Florida faces a challenging few summers. The upcoming campaign presents fresh obstacles, particularly with star players missing. The Panthers must overcome inevitable fatigue from a shortened offseason compounded by a rough start to the season. While Florida has demonstrated resilience before, it`s more critical than ever that they push through and adapt to the new normal of winning games without two franchise cornerstones.

Most Likely Award Winner:

Sam Reinhart (Hart Trophy)

Fantasy Outlook:

Don`t let Matthew Tkachuk drop too far in drafts, as his early absence can be managed with an IR spot. Seth Jones` fantasy value could surge as the power-play anchor. The playoff-dominant line of Anton Lundell, Eetu Luostarinen, and Brad Marchand is worth monitoring to see if their chemistry persists.

Bold Prediction:

Bobrovsky will receive a `Marchand-like` extension to keep him with the team beyond this season.

5. Dallas Stars

Biggest Strength:

The Dallas Stars possess one of the NHL`s most complete rosters. Their offense features two 100-point wingers, Mikko Rantanen and Jason Robertson, who can play together or be split across the top two lines. Roope Hintz leads their centers as a premier two-way anchor, supported by a trio of versatile top-six options. On defense, they boast three top-pairing caliber players—Miro Heiskanen, Esa Lindell, and Thomas Harley—plus promising young defenseman Lian Bichsel. Capping it all, Jake Oettinger stands as one of the league`s top goaltenders.

Biggest Concern:

A significant concern is their defensive depth, particularly if injuries become a factor in their pursuit of home-ice advantage. The team lost Evgenii Dadonov and Mason Marchment (42 combined goals last season), along with in-season trade acquisitions Cody Ceci and Mikael Granlund. While losing three top-nine forwards and a top-four defenseman would impact any team, the Stars still have a strong roster. However, a long-term injury to a key player, coupled with less salary cap flexibility than in previous years, could pose a serious challenge.

This Season Hinges On:

This season hinges on their star players returning from the Olympics healthy and without injury. In an Olympic year, a team`s composition before the Games can differ significantly from its post-break lineup. The Stars could potentially have at least nine players participating in the February Olympics, including their entire projected top line (Hintz, Rantanen, Robertson), their top defensive pairing (Heiskanen, Lindell), and starting goaltender Oettinger. Their ability to manage this high-stakes period will be crucial.

Most Likely Award Winner:

Mikko Rantanen (Hart Trophy)

Fantasy Outlook:

While Rantanen might not hit 100 points away from Nathan MacKinnon, approximately 90 points alongside Wyatt Johnston and Hintz is a reasonable expectation. If Mavrik Bourque secures a spot in the Stars` top six, he merits rostering in deeper fantasy leagues.

Bold Prediction:

Prepare for regression from Matt Duchene.

6. Colorado Avalanche

Biggest Strength:

The return of Gabriel Landeskog to the lineup for opening night is Colorado`s biggest strength. Missing nearly three seasons, Landeskog`s absence created a persistent challenge in solidifying the team`s top six. His return provides the Avalanche with a proven top-six winger who can be relied upon in various situations, significantly strengthening a second line that has lacked stability since their 2022 Stanley Cup victory.

Biggest Concern:

A key concern is the depth of the supporting cast, particularly at third-line center. Avs coach Jared Bednar identified this as the lineup`s only hole in mid-September. While internal options exist and might be the most effective immediate plan, the Avalanche entered training camp with limited cap space ($1.325 million). They might use this now or wait until Logan O`Connor returns to assess their bottom six, potentially trading for a solution to their third-line center issues.

This Season Hinges On:

This season hinges on Mackenzie Blackwood and Scott Wedgewood performing at or above last season`s levels. Last October`s struggles are a stark reminder: the Avalanche began the season with a four-game losing streak, conceding 25 goals. They subsequently lost three consecutive games starting three different goalies. Winning just three of those games would have given them six points – two more than the Stars – potentially securing home-ice advantage in their eventual Game 7 first-round loss in Dallas. Consistent goaltending is paramount.

Most Likely Award Winner:

Cale Makar (Norris Trophy)

Fantasy Outlook:

While Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar are top-ranked in their respective positions, Colorado`s second scoring line holds the most fantasy intrigue. If Landeskog returns to form, Valeri Nichushkin stays healthy, and center Brock Nelson gels with both, expect significant production.

Bold Prediction:

The Avalanche will win the Western Conference.

7. Winnipeg Jets

Biggest Strength:

The Jets` **offensive options** remain a key strength, despite early-season tests to their depth with captain Adam Lowry recovering from a hip injury and Cole Perfetti out week-to-week with an ankle sprain. Even with these absences, Winnipeg can deploy veterans Gustav Nyquist and Jonathan Toews on the second line alongside promising rookie Nikita Chibrikov. The anticipated return of Lowry and Perfetti by November offers diverse lineup possibilities for a team expected to contend in the West.

Biggest Concern:

A major concern is the potential impact of an injury to **Connor Hellebuyck**. As only the eighth goalie in NHL history to win the Hart Trophy (league MVP) and one of the few to secure three Vezina Trophies (best goaltender), Hellebuyck is among the planet`s top players. His consistent ability to play over 60 games per season underscores his immense value to the Jets. A significant injury to Hellebuyck would leave the team in a desperate scramble.

This Season Hinges On:

This season **hinges on** the Jets advancing beyond the second round of the playoffs. Winnipeg occupies a unique position; they aren`t quite in the proven championship window of teams like the Avalanche, Golden Knights, Oilers, or Stars, but they also aren`t battling until the final weeks just to make the playoffs. Their performance this postseason will be crucial in defining their true standing within the Western Conference landscape.

Most Likely Award Winner:

Connor Hellebuyck (Vezina Trophy)

Fantasy Outlook:

Perfetti is set to join the Jets` strong core as Ehlers` replacement on the top power play unit. After regaining his form, new second-line center Jonathan Toews offers sleeper potential in extra-deep leagues.

Bold Prediction:

Kyle Connor will re-sign with the Jets, commanding a contract similar to Mitch Marner`s.

8. Toronto Maple Leafs

Biggest Strength:

The Maple Leafs still possess a formidable “Core Four,” now featuring Matthew Knies alongside Auston Matthews, William Nylander, and John Tavares, following Mitch Marner`s departure. Knies has emerged as a breakout star, poised to help the Leafs capitalize on their offensive prowess. A healthy Auston Matthews is capable of 50 goals, as is Nylander, while Tavares and Knies should aim for 32-40. New arrivals like Nicolas Roy, expected to anchor the third line, and Matias Maccelli, a potential top-six contributor, further deepen their offense, allowing coach Craig Berube to stabilize the forward group without missing a beat.

Biggest Concern:

Toronto`s goaltending stability is a significant concern. Last season, the team boasted a strong duo in Anthony Stolarz and Joseph Woll. However, Woll`s indefinite leave of absence for personal reasons has left the Leafs scrambling for a reliable backup behind Stolarz. Dennis Hildeby`s six NHL appearances last season (with an .878 SV%) suggest he lacks the experience to shoulder significant responsibility. The signing of veteran James Reimer to a professional tryout is a stopgap measure. This situation places immense pressure on Stolarz, who set a career high with 34 starts last season and is expected to see increased action. His ability to handle this workload and avoid injuries (he was hampered by a knee injury and concussion last season) is crucial, as a setback would leave the team reliant on Reimer and Hildeby.

This Season Hinges On:

This season hinges critically on the team`s health. For the Maple Leafs to succeed, Auston Matthews must remain as injury-free as possible. In the past, Marner`s presence helped fill the void when Matthews missed time; that safety net is gone, making Matthews` sustained health paramount. Beyond injury avoidance, the intensely competitive Matthews aims to prove the Leafs can thrive without Marner, seeking to replicate his league-leading 69-goal campaign from two seasons ago. Simultaneously, a healthy Stolarz in net is essential to prevent goals at the other end, given his previous injury struggles that impacted Toronto`s performance.

Most Likely Award Winner:

Auston Matthews (Hart Trophy)

Fantasy Outlook:

Despite Marner`s departure, the Leafs retain strong fantasy appeal at the top. However, secondary options will be shaped by deployment. Maccelli and Max Domi could land top-line duties. If either Stolarz or Woll reaches 55 starts, they possess top-five fantasy goalie upside.

Bold Prediction:

The Leafs will retain Nicholas Robertson.

9. Tampa Bay Lightning

Biggest Strength:

The Lightning possess enviable offensive talent that makes them formidable in both 5-on-5 play and special teams. Nikita Kucherov`s league-leading 121 points last season powered Tampa Bay`s top-ranked offense, which averaged 3.56 goals per game. A host of high-end skaters consistently generate offense, with Brayden Point and Jake Guentzel each surpassing the 40-goal mark, and Brandon Hagel contributing 35 goals and 90 points. With eight double-digit goal scorers and a fifth-ranked power play, the Lightning`s depth and potency with the man advantage (already evident in preseason) suggest they will be a contender if their core forwards repeat their performance and the bottom six provides reasonable support.

Biggest Concern:

The Lightning consistently struggle with player health. Even in preseason, starting goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy and top defender Victor Hedman have already faced injuries. Vasilevskiy, as the team`s workhorse, is prone to being worn down. Similarly, Hedman, who averaged a team-high 23:05 of ice time last season, also carries a heavy burden. These two are essential players who elevate the Lightning to an elite level, and any limitations on them will hurt Tampa Bay in both the short and long term. While Jonas Johansson has been a serviceable backup and Pheonix Copley was claimed off waivers, neither can replicate Vasilevskiy`s prime performance or Hedman`s production. The Lightning`s success in the competitive Atlantic Division hinges on their core players staying healthy and excelling.

This Season Hinges On:

This season hinges on how Tampa Bay endures the grueling regular-season schedule. While their ability to win when it counts (back-to-back Stanley Cup champions in 2020 and 2021) is undeniable, more recently, they`ve struggled to extend regular-season success into the postseason, suffering three consecutive first-round playoff exits. This isn`t due to a lack of depth but rather a failure of key contributions to materialize when it matters most. Fatigue is also a factor for a veteran group that relies heavily on 34-year-old Hedman and 32-year-old Kucherov. How the Lightning manage the physical demands of an 82-game season will determine both their playoff qualification and their ultimate impact.

Most Likely Award Winner:

Nikita Kucherov (Art Ross Trophy)

Fantasy Outlook:

The Lightning`s fantasy appeal remains star-driven, but secondary roles are important. Anthony Cirelli found relevance as a second-line center last season, creating an opportunity for wingers like Oliver Bjorkstrand or Conor Geekie to follow suit. Determining who secures a spot in the middle six will clarify potential sleeper values.

Bold Prediction:

The Lightning will win the Atlantic Division.

10. Washington Capitals

Biggest Strength:

The Capitals` defensive depth is the envy of any opponent. John Carlson remains Washington`s primary workhorse, capable of driving play from the backend and contributing offensively. Jakob Chychrun has elevated his game in Washington and will be tasked with more responsibility, needing to replicate Carlson`s reliable presence long-term. Rasmus Sandin and Matt Roy form a solid pairing, and Trevor van Riemsdyk is a consistent third-pairing asset. The balanced nature of Washington`s blue line is exceptional; all six primary defenders can join the rush or play defensively, demonstrating strong chemistry and anticipation. This defensive strength was pivotal in their improbable 111-point campaign last season, a target they aim to achieve again.

Biggest Concern:

It may seem counterintuitive given their second-place scoring rank last season, but Washington faces a scoring depth problem. Alex Ovechkin`s historic 44-goal campaign, Tom Wilson`s 33 goals, Dylan Strome`s breakout point-per-game season, and Aliaksei Protas`s surprising 30 goals heavily skewed those numbers. However, there`s a sharp drop-off thereafter, with Pierre-Luc Dubois collecting only 66 points and Nic Dowd 27. There`s a strong chance Ovechkin won`t match last season`s numbers, which places immense pressure on Strome, Protas, and Dubois to either maintain or exceed their previous contributions. Washington`s supporting cast must step up and move into the offensive spotlight.

This Season Hinges On:

This season hinges on whether Washington can prove its legitimacy. Last season`s ascent to the top of the Eastern Conference standings was largely unanticipated. Coach Spencer Carbery maximized the team`s talent, unlocking their best performance. However, questions remain: was it a fluke, or can Washington build on that confidence and again lead the East? This depends on improvements from players like Dubois and another strong season from goaltender Logan Thompson, who posted a .910 SV%. Even if rivals doubt their past success, the Capitals have the opportunity to demonstrate that their achievement was no accident.

Most Likely Award Winner:

Ryan Leonard (Calder Trophy)

Fantasy Outlook:

The Capitals were a surprise last season, one of just five teams with five 25-goal scorers. Protas and Connor McMichael look to build on their breakout performances, while Leonard and playoff surprise Anthony Beauvillier push for roster spots. On defense, Carlson and Chychrun complement each other well. Thompson is worth stashing early.

Bold Prediction:

Ovechkin will break Wayne Gretzky`s combined regular-season and playoff goals record (1,016).

11. New Jersey Devils

Biggest Strength:

The Devils are primarily powered by their three star players: Jack Hughes, Nico Hischier, and Jesper Bratt. As these three go, so goes New Jersey. When healthy, Hughes is an elite talent who drives the Devils` offense through both scoring and playmaking. Hischier`s two-way game is among the strongest in the league. Bratt led New Jersey with 88 points in 81 games last season and has proven his versatility across coach Sheldon Keefe`s lineup. With a solid supporting cast, including Timo Meier in a well-suited second-line role and Connor Brown adding a boost to the bottom six as a free agent, the Devils should feel confident about their offensive prospects.

Biggest Concern:

While New Jersey secured top defenseman Luke Hughes with a seven-year deal, a major concern is the impact of his delayed offseason due to shoulder surgery on his preparedness for the season. Once he`s up to speed, will he be ready to lead a defensive core riddled with questions? Johnathan Kovacevic is out indefinitely, Brett Pesce struggled in his debut season with the Devils, Jonas Siegenthaler will be adjusting to a new partner, and Simon Nemec spent the 2024-25 season shuttling between the NHL and AHL. Despite ranking fifth in fewest goals against last season (2.68 per game) thanks to strong goaltending from Jacob Markstrom and Jake Allen, the Devils are banking on enough defensive support for their goalies to remain effective. If not, the offense will face increased pressure to produce.