As the 2024-25 NHL season completes its first 20 days, it has certainly delivered a variety of surprises.
Mark Stone at the top of the scoring chart? Cale Makar (along with several defensemen) projected to surpass 100 points? The Winnipeg Jets achieving a perfect record after eight games?
To make sense of it all, we’ve brought together a group of NHL analysts to tackle a set of pressing questions.
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Which of your preseason predictions are you least confident in now?
Ryan S. Clark, NHL reporter: My choice of Charlie McAvoy to win the Norris Trophy now feels uncertain. His biggest challenge remains the same as in previous years: Can he accumulate enough points? As of Monday, McAvoy has recorded three points across nine games, a stark difference compared to other defensemen like Cale Makar (16 points), Alex Pietrangelo (11 points), and both Rasmus Andersson and Neal Pionk (each with 10).
McAvoy possesses the overall skill to excel in various situations. However, any defenseman hoping to make a strong argument for the Norris needs to generate points.
Victoria Matiash, NHL analyst: Although my prediction that the Nashville Predators would top the Central Division seems less misguided than when they were, um, 0-5, it’s not exactly glowing. The Jets are thriving, the Dallas Stars are in control, the Minnesota Wild are quietly accumulating victories, and the Colorado Avalanche appear to be recovering from their shaky start.
I still believe that Nashville’s talent is too significant to miss the playoffs entirely, but the competitiveness of their division is already overshadowing my bold forecast.
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Arda Öcal, NHL broadcaster: Before the season kicked off, I believed Connor McDavid would dominate again and claim all the accolades. However, Kaiju Cale Makar burst onto the scene early, charging his way to the top of the scoring charts and putting himself firmly in contention for scoring titles. I still think McDavid could lead in points and goals by the end of the year, but my confidence has waned since the season began (though a strong stretch could easily shift that back).
Kristen Shilton, NHL reporter: I invested considerable faith in the Edmonton Oilers this season, and my confidence fluctuates just like the team’s performance. I anticipated they would build on their momentum from last season’s Game 7 in the Stanley Cup Final, yet Edmonton has seemed more fragmented than cohesive.
Being a .500 team a few weeks in doesn’t imply the Oilers are poor, and they certainly have the potential to regain their dominance in the Pacific or restore my Cup Final prediction’s credibility, but I’m not as optimistic about Edmonton now as I was in September.
Greg Wyshynski, NHL reporter: I was convinced that the Utah Hockey Club would secure a playoff spot in the Western Conference. I needed to identify a team that made the postseason last year but would drop out to accommodate newcomers. The Winnipeg Jets had a 110-point season under Rick Bowness but didn’t seem likely to replicate that, and I wasn’t particularly impressed with their defensive lineup, which is sandwiched between the forwards and goaltender Connor Hellebuyck.
However, the Jets have proven their strength under Scott Arniel, last season’s associate coach who took over for Bowness, as they are on track for [checks standings] an incredible 164 points through eight games – an offensive powerhouse supported by the league’s top goaltender. Meanwhile, Utah started strong but has now slipped back to .500, and injuries to defensemen Sean Durzi and John Marino could undermine my earlier prediction.
As of Monday, 28 players are on pace to reach or exceed 100 points this season. How many do you think will actually achieve that?
Clark: I’ll say 15. The
The most difficult aspect is identifying the “unknowns” sitting at the top of the leaderboard.
Can Mark Stone, who has not played more than 70 games since the 2018-19 season, remain healthy? Is there a chance that Jared McCann, whose current career high is 70 points, could achieve the 100-point milestone for a Seattle Kraken team that entered Monday ranked 19th in shooting percentage and 21st in goals per game? How will defensemen like Andersson and Pionk perform? Andersson tallied 88 points over the past two seasons, while Pionk amassed 98 points over the last three.
Matiash: I’ll propose a total of twelve. Nine skaters reached that threshold last season, with a few others — Kirill Kaprizov would have achieved it in a full season — close behind. Some players currently on track, like Casey Mittelstadt and Dylan Strome, do not have the career achievements to convince me they will flirt with that elusive mark by the end of the season, although I would gladly be proven wrong on that front. Injuries and games missed will unfortunately be significant factors for many.
Öcal: All 28. Let’s aim for a historic season. In all seriousness, we had nine last season, so let’s set our sights on breaking into double digits this year. And let’s hope for a couple of surprise 100-point campaigns. Mark Stone is currently leading the league with 18 points through 10 games. He has never surpassed 64 points in a season, achieved back in 2014-2015 with the Senators. I believe he can reach 100 this season.
Shilton: I’ll predict 10. The exciting part of this early season is that defenses are still adjusting, which allows scorers to take advantage. Sustaining such production throughout the season is typically a challenge for all but the elite few. However, I would love to be proven wrong and witness 15 or 16 players exceed the 100-point mark by April. History suggests that such an explosion of scoring is unlikely.
Wyshynski: I’ll take the most conservative route and say nine players will hit the mark, the same as last season. Slumps and injuries occur. The current offensive pace this season — averaging 3.23 goals per team per game over 138 games — would be the highest since the 1993-94 season. While I would be pleased to be incorrect about the limited offensive excitement this year, I anticipate the final outcomes aligning more closely with past seasons, particularly 2023-24.
Mark Stone’s highest points in a season is 64. Will he reach triple digits this year? David Becker/NHLI via Getty Images
What has been the Jets’ secret ingredient for starting the season 8-0-0?
Clark: There isn’t a single player driving this success; it’s a team effort. The Jets are getting expected contributions from top-six forwards such as Kyle Connor, Nikolaj Ehlers, and Mark Scheifele. They are also benefiting from a healthy Cole Perfetti, who has been a key player for several seasons. The third line featuring Mason Appleton, Adam Lowry, and Nino Niederreiter has consistently caused problems for opponents. Pionk adds another dimension on defense beyond Josh Morrissey, providing valuable contributions.
Perhaps the most crucial element is that we have only now mentioned Connor Hellebuyck, the reigning Vezina Trophy winner. This speaks volumes about how strong the team has been and highlights the excellent preparation from Scott Arniel and his coaching staff as the season commenced.
Matiash: The combination of balanced scoring, solid defensive play, Vezina-worthy goaltending, exceptional production on the power play, effective penalty killing, and disciplined behavior — with the Jets being one of the least penalized teams in the league — creates a near-perfect formula. If there is a clear weakness in this team right now, I am unable to identify it.
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Öcal: How impressive is that third line featuring Lowry, Appleton, and Niederreiter? This trio has become the identity line for the Jets, each player maintaining a point-per-game average after eight matches … from the third line! According to Jets head coach Scott Arniel, this unit consists of “straight-line players” who “drive the puck forward and get after it. They score a significant number of goals in that blue paint area.” Are they contenders for the best line in hockey? So far, their dominance is evident, as they have outscored the opposition 6-0 at 5-on-5.
Shilton: What truly sets the Jets apart is their impressive balance. Over eight games, they have four players reaching 10 points, with reliable contributors on every line. Winnipeg is not merely a one-man show relying solely on individual talent (although they possess it) or elite goaltending (thanks to Connor Hellebuyck) to secure victories. Establishing depth from the outset influences not only the team’s dynamics but also shapes how the rest of the league perceives them.
The Jets exude confidence, stemming from their awareness of being not just a good team, but a notably deep one.
Wyshynski: Let’s take a moment to appreciate Scott Arniel. In the NHL, many head coaches face setbacks during their initial roles before achieving success later on. Arniel recorded a 45-60-18 record during his two partial seasons with the Columbus Blue Jackets from 2010 to 2012. Subsequently, he spent time under renowned coaches such as Alain Vigneault in New York, Peter Laviolette in Washington, and Rick Bowness as an associate coach with the Jets.
By focusing early on Winnipeg’s analytics to understand the challenges faced against the Avalanche last postseason, Arniel has fostered better roster comprehension and communication within the team. It’s essential to acknowledge that none of us considered Scott Arniel a frontrunner for the Jack Adams Award before the season began, yet here we are.
What has been your favorite moment of the season so far?
Clark: The Chill Cam in Utah stands out to me, which captures fans chugging beer during games. During the inaugural game of the Utah Hockey Club, there was a fan who couldn’t finish their drink, and the crowd booed them louder than the visiting Chicago Blackhawks. It was intriguing to witness Utah’s embrace of this aspect of hockey culture, especially considering the state’s historically strict alcohol regulations, which led to it being dubbed “The Zion Curtain” for many years.
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The new Chill Cam prompted one fan to express that he had never witnessed anything like that at any sporting event in Utah, which deepened his support for the UHC.
Matiash: I hesitate to label it a favorite moment, given the tragic circumstances that inspired it, but John Tortorella inviting Guy Gaudreau to participate in practice with the Philadelphia Flyers stands out as particularly meaningful. Such a personal gesture extended to someone who was grappling with profound grief and loss, a person Tortorella had never met, reflects the coach’s remarkable empathy and the strong unity observed within the hockey community.
Öcal: I was touched by the dignified manner in which the entire league honored Johnny Gaudreau. However, the tribute during the Columbus Blue Jackets’ home opener impacted me the most.
When the puck was dropped, it was slowly passed to an unoccupied left wing, a position where Johnny Hockey would typically have lined up, and then left there for 13 seconds. The players allowed the clock to run out of respect, leading to a standing ovation. It was a genuinely special moment to honor an extraordinary individual.
1:10
The Blue Jackets open the game without a left winger to pay tribute to Johnny Gaudreau.
To honor Johnny Gaudreau, the Blue Jackets began their match against the Panthers with no left winger and allowed 13 seconds to run off the clock.
Shilton: I found the milestone game for Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin against the Buffalo Sabres to be quite impressive. It’s uncommon in today’s NHL to see teammates stay together long enough to achieve such milestones. For Malkin to score his 500th goal, assisted by Crosby, after Malkin had assisted on Crosby’s 500th goal two years prior, and for Crosby to reach his 1,600th point on the same evening was a remarkable sight to witness.
Penguins fans haven’t had much to celebrate in recent years, but it’s important to recognize how this duo continues to excel at such a high level late in their already illustrious careers.
Wyshynski: Steven Stamkos’s return to Tampa was a significant moment. As Lightning coach Jon Cooper stated, “Breakups are hard. It’s the soap opera of sports.” This particular breakup was no different. It felt surreal to witness a franchise that had essentially moved on from its captain and top offensive player warmly welcoming his return with an emotional video tribute and scoreboards declaring “Forever 91.”
Hearing Lightning fans transform from booing two Nashville goals to cheering Stamkos’s name for assisting on those goals was memorable. It was delightful to watch Jake Guentzel, who replaced Stamkos on Tampa Bay’s top line, record two assists, including one on Nick Paul’s game-winner. Did that emotional evening help Stamkos move forward? ”I dunno. We’ll see. I’ll let you know if that day comes, but I don’t think you completely turn the page,” he remarked.
Early NHL Season Surprises: Analyzing the Unexpected Twists and Team Performances
The 2023-2024 NHL Season Overview
As the NHL season kicks off, fans and analysts alike are buzzing with excitement about the unexpected twists and performances that are already shaping the landscape of the league. While some teams are meeting expectations, others are defying predictions, creating a thrilling atmosphere for hockey enthusiasts.
Surprising Team Performances
This section focuses on teams that have surprised everyone with their performances early in the season.
1. The Rise of the Seattle Kraken
After a challenging inaugural season, the Seattle Kraken have emerged as one of the most surprising teams in the league. With a strong off-season acquisition strategy, they have shown significant improvements in both offense and defense.
- Key Players: Matty Beniers and Jordan Eberle
- Current Standings: Top 3 in the Pacific Division
2. The Fall of the Toronto Maple Leafs
The Toronto Maple Leafs, usually a powerhouse in the Atlantic Division, have stumbled out of the gate, facing criticism for their inconsistent play. Key injuries and a lack of offensive depth have contributed to their struggles.
- Injuries: Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner
- Current Standings: Near the bottom of the Atlantic Division
3. The Resurgence of the Chicago Blackhawks
The Chicago Blackhawks have surprised many by starting the season strong, thanks in large part to the emergence of rookie Connor Bedard. His exceptional skills have breathed new life into the franchise.
- Key Players: Connor Bedard and Seth Jones
- Current Standings: Mid-tier in the Central Division
Statistical Highlights and Analysis
Understanding the statistics behind these surprising performances can provide greater insight into team dynamics and future potential.
| Team | Games Played | Wins | Losses | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle Kraken | 10 | 7 | 3 | 14 |
| Toronto Maple Leafs | 10 | 3 | 7 | 6 |
| Chicago Blackhawks | 10 | 5 | 5 | 10 |
Key Player Performances
Not only have teams surprised us, but individual players are also stepping up in unexpected ways.
Emerging Stars
The following players are making waves early in the season, showcasing their skills and contributing significantly to their teams’ success.
- Matty Beniers (Seattle Kraken): Leading the team in points and showing impressive playmaking abilities.
- Connor Bedard (Chicago Blackhawks): Making history as one of the top rookies, contributing to the offensive surge.
- Igor Shesterkin (New York Rangers): Standing out as a goaltender, with several key saves that have secured wins.
Benefits of Following NHL Season Surprises
Staying updated on early surprises in the NHL season offers several benefits for fans and bettors alike:
- Informed Betting: Knowledge of underperforming and overperforming teams can guide smarter betting decisions.
- Engaged Fan Experience: Understanding team dynamics enhances the enjoyment of watching games.
- Player Insights: Recognizing emerging stars can help in fantasy hockey leagues and discussions.
Case Studies: Teams to Watch
As the season unfolds, certain teams are worth monitoring for both their potential to maintain or improve their standings and the impact of player developments.
1. Seattle Kraken
After winning 7 of their first 10 games, the Kraken’s future looks bright. They are known for their strong power play and solid defense.
2. Toronto Maple Leafs
Despite their slow start, the Maple Leafs have the talent to turn things around if they can overcome injuries and find their rhythm.
3. Chicago Blackhawks
The Blackhawks are proving to be a dark horse this season. With rising stars, they could climb the rankings if they maintain their current performance level.
Practical Tips for Fans
To get the most out of following the NHL season, consider these practical tips:
- Follow Team News: Stay updated on injury reports and team changes through reputable sports news sources.
- Engage on Social Media: Join discussions on platforms like Twitter and Reddit to share insights and predictions.
- Watch Highlight Reels: Keep up with top plays and performances by watching weekly highlight videos.
First-Hand Experience: Fan Reactions
Fans’ reactions to surprising performances can often be just as entertaining as the games themselves. Here’s a glimpse into some fan sentiments:
- Seattle Kraken Fans: ”we’re making a name for ourselves!”
- Toronto Maple Leafs Fans: “Can we get it together? We need our stars back!”
- Blackhawks Fans: “Connor is a game-changer! We’re back in the mix!”
Conclusion
As the 2023-2024 NHL season progresses, the surprises and storylines continue to unfold. From unexpected team performances to emerging stars, the league is packed with excitement. Stay tuned for more developments as we analyze the twists and turns of this captivating season!
