NHL 2025-26 Season Preview: Contenders, Dark Horses, and Teams to Watch

NHL 2025-26 Season Outlook

As the 2024-25 NHL season concludes, we shift our focus to what promises to be an intriguing 2025-26 campaign. Our analysts break down all 32 teams into five distinct categories, from legitimate Stanley Cup contenders to franchises still in rebuilding mode.

Stanley Cup Contenders

Winnipeg Jets (70.9% point percentage)
With Connor Hellebuyck anchoring the league's best defense and Mark Scheifele leading a potent offense, the Jets remain among the NHL's elite. Their structured system and scoring depth make them a perennial threat.

Dallas Stars (67.1%)
Even without Miro Heiskanen, the Stars showcase remarkable depth. Mikko Rantanen (signed through 2033) and emerging star Wyatt Johnston complement a veteran core that knows how to win.

Vegas Golden Knights (66.5%)
Never count out the Knights. Despite roster turnover, Jack Eichel and Mark Stone form a championship-caliber foundation. Their front office has consistently proven adept at mid-season reinforcements.

Colorado Avalanche (62.5%)
The Nathan MacKinnon-Cale Makar duo keeps Colorado in contention year after year. Coach Jared Bednar's system maximizes role players effectively around their superstars.

Playoff Locks (But Not Quite Elite)

Washington Capitals (69.9%)
Alex Ovechkin's milestone year powered an unexpectedly strong squad. The question: was this a perfect storm, or can they sustain success as Ovi enters his 40s?

Carolina Hurricanes (62.2%)
The Hurricanes remain analytically sound but may have lost a step in the Rantanen sweepstakes. Alexander Nikishin's arrival could bolster their defense next season.

Bubble Teams

Edmonton Oilers (60.9%)
Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl can only carry so much load. Until defensive issues are resolved, Edmonton risks wasting prime years of two generational talents.

Montreal Canadiens (55.8%)
With Ivan Demidov joining an already promising young core, the Habs could be one goaltending solution away from becoming consistent playoff participants.

Still Developing

Anaheim Ducks (49.4%)
Leo Carlsson and Cutter Gauthier form an exciting young nucleus, but GM Pat Verbeek likely wants to see another year of development before aggressive moves.

Buffalo Sabres (48.7%)
Talented but perpetually disappointing, Buffalo's defensive core of Power, Dahlin and Byram suggests the pieces are there - if they can ever put it together.

Draft Lottery Bound

Chicago Blackhawks (35.4%)
Despite Connor Bedard's brilliance, Chicago lacks enough supporting talent to climb out of the NHL basement. Their rebuild remains in early stages.

San Jose Sharks (32.7%)
Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith represent hope, but San Jose's porous defense (3.75 GA/game) means more growing pains ahead.

Key Storylines for 2025-26

• Toronto's Cap Crunch: With Marner, Tavares and Knies needing new deals, the Maple Leafs face tough decisions that could reshape their championship window.
• Florida's Goaltending Future: Sergei Bobrovsky can't play forever - the Panthers need to develop his successor.
• Ottawa's Arrival: After years of promise, the Sens seem poised to become consistent playoff participants.
• Detroit's Crossroads: Another offseason looms where the Wings must decide between patience and aggressive roster upgrades.