There’s very little sympathy for struggling NHL players.
Teams don’t owe them long-term loyalty and can move on at a moment’s notice. Fans can turn in an instant, too, while the media dissects flaws during rough patches, particularly in larger markets. It’s a brutal mental experience, made worse because many players are even harsher critics of themselves than the outside world. No amount of money can replace the peace of mind that comes with meeting or exceeding expectations.
That’s why it’s so easy to cheer for bounce-back and redemption stories. Today, we’ll be diving into nine players who are excelling in response to a disappointing or injury-ridden 2023-24 season (this list isn’t about breakout stars, so don’t expect names like Connor McMichael, Philip Broberg, Anton Lundell, Ross Colton, Kirill Marchenko, etc.).
Thompson looked like a franchise center when he exploded for 47 goals and 94 points in 2022-23. His towering size, elite shooting ability, and silky smooth hands made him one of the league’s most exciting players to watch. However, he took a noticeable step back last season, scoring 29 goals and 56 points in 71 games. Considering his limited track record as a top-tier first-line center, many questioned whether his 94-point season was merely a fluke.
Not only has Thompson bounced back as an elite offensive producer, but he’s elevated his all-around game to heights he’s never reached before.
The 27-year-old sniper scored 16 five-on-five goals last year. Through 16 games this season, he’s already up to a league-leading 10 at even strength.
Thompson’s line is thriving on the rush — six of his 10 even-strength goals have come from counterattacks, by my count. This surge also coincides with increased health compared to last season, when an upper-body injury limited him. He’s back to unleashing those one-timer rockets, a crucial element of his game that was hampered last year.
TAGE RIPS ONE
WHAT A GOAL
THAT WAS MAGIC
GOD IS THERE ANYTHING BETTER THAN A THOMPSON ONE TIMER pic.twitter.com/k88607WHkh
— Crossing Swords ⚔️ (@CrossSwordsPod) October 23, 2024
Thompson’s slap shot numbers
| Season | Slapshot Goals | Slapshot SOG |
|---|---|---|
Moreover, it’s remarkable to witness the transformation of his two-way contributions.
. The Sabres are dominating opponents to the tune of a 61 percent expected goal share and have outscored opponents 15-4 during Thompson’s five-on-five shifts. His defensive metrics are miles better compared to his breakout 2022-23 campaign. He’s certainly playing the best hockey of his career.
Thompson’s improving 5v5 defence
|
Season |
Goals Against/60 |
Expected Goals Against/60 |
|---|---|---|
Thompson left Monday’s game against the Montreal Canadiens with an injury and didn’t return but he’s considered day to day by the Sabres.
There are several reasons why the Devils had such a disappointing season last year, and their underperforming blue line is high on the list. Damon Severson and Ryan Graves’ offseason departures stung and Dougie Hamilton’s season-ending injury was a major blow, but Siegenthaler and John Marino’s down years were the final blow to the back end’s stability.
Siegenthaler, who’d been an underrated shutdown defender during his first two seasons in New Jersey, struggled mightily in 2023-24. Corey Sznajder’s tracking data revealed he was becoming a turnover machine and allowing rush chances at appalling rates. The Devils were outscored by 10 goals during his five-on-five minutes last season.
The 27-year-old defender is back to his reliable old self again. Siegenthaler and his new partner Johnathan Kovacevic (who’s been one of the most pleasant surprises in the NHL since being acquired from the Canadiens) have been assigned the toughest matchups on New Jersey’s blue line and are crushing it — Siegenthaler’s 57 percent expected goal share is the best mark of his career and they’re outscoring opponents 17-8 at five-on-five.
Siegenthaler has been the Devils’ most valuable defenseman so far this year, according to Dom Luszczyszyn’s Game Score model. He’s been one of the quiet drivers behind New Jersey’s rise back up the standings.
Necas dropped from 71 points in 2022-23 to 53 last season in addition to posting subpar defensive metrics. The 25-year-old has always flashed eye-popping skill, but many Canes analysts and fans wondered whether he was an ideal fit with Rod Brind’Amour’s system and playing style. Carolina preaches two-way commitment first and hasn’t given its forwards much freedom to freelance offensively in the past, which appeared to clash with Necas’ high-risk, high-reward offensive instincts.
Necas’ name was bandied in trade rumors all summer, but after signing a two-year bridge deal, he’s quickly become an indispensable offensive driver. He’s already up to nine goals and 25 points in 15 games, which is 11 points higher than the next-highest producer in Carolina. The Hurricanes appear to be giving their players more leash to aggressively push on the counterattack this season, which has unlocked Necas’ top offensive gear. He’s also gaining the coaching staff’s trust by improving his decision-making to cut down his turnovers and limiting his mistakes away from the puck.
Carolina goal!
Scored by Jesperi Kotkaniemi with 07:14 remaining in the 1st period.
Assisted by Martin Necas and Eric Robinson.
Vegas: 0
Carolina: 2#CARvsVGK #VegasBorn #RaiseUp pic.twitter.com/uMfqnCsnVl— NHL Goals (@nhl_goal_bot) November 12, 2024
One of the most impressive parts about Necas’ breakout is that he’s producing at an elite clip without the help of any high-end linemates. Jesperi Kotkaniemi and Eric Robinson have been his two most common running mates on the second line this season — Kotkaniemi and Robinson combined for just 36 points last year. Necas is doing the heavy lifting of driving a top-six line by himself; if he keeps this up, he’ll be in line for a massive payday as an unrestricted free agent after the 2025-26 season.
Chytil was on the cusp of breaking out as a legitimate top-six-caliber center before being derailed by a suspected concussion. He missed all but 10 regular-season games last year and understandably didn’t perform up to his potential in the playoffs when he did return, going without a point in six contests.
The speedy 25-year-old center is now driving arguably the best third line in the NHL this season. He’s up to four goals and nine points in 14 games on top of driving elite two-way results. The Rangers have controlled a commanding 65.5 percent of expected goals and outscored teams 12-2 during Chytil’s five-on-five minutes. Peter Laviolette is deploying Chytil’s line more like a second line than a third line, as they’ve played more five-on-five minutes this season than Mika Zibanejad and his linemates.
Chytil’s dynamic skill is unlocking more offense out of Will Cuylle and Kaapo Kakko, who are each enjoying breakout offensive campaigns. He’s been the Rangers’ best center in the early going, re-emerging as a game-changer for New York’s middle six now that he’s healthy.
Pionk’s arc in Winnipeg has been volatile.
He made an excellent first impression for the Jets as a high-end top-four defender to replace Jacob Trouba. He was rewarded with a lucrative extension carrying a $5.875 million cap hit and, yet, whether it’s because of previous injuries or other factors, he struggled in a top-four role last year.
But the 29-year-old right-shot defenseman is resurging in a major way to start 2024-25. He’s already notched 17 points in 16 games, more than half the production he managed last season which slots him second among all NHL defensemen in points so far. Pionk’s two-way impact has been stronger, too — this is the first time in his career that his team is generating more five-on-five scoring chances than they’re surrendering when he’s on the ice.
Getting back to full health has been a key part of Pionk’s redemption story. NHL Edge data shows his skating speed has improved compared to years past. Pionk is finally playing like a bona fide top-four player again which, coupled with other strong performances on the blue line, has contributed to the Jets’ historically dominant start.
The up-and-down, roller-coaster-like trajectory for many NHL goaltenders is enough to give you whiplash.
In 2022-23, Gustavsson burst onto the scene as one of the league’s most surprising breakout players, pitching a sparkling .931 save percentage in 39 games during his first season with the Wild. It earned him a sizable three-year extension at a $3.75 million cap hit, only for his performance to fall off a cliff last season.
Gustavsson dropped to a .899 save percentage and surrendered nearly eight goals more than you’d expect from a league-average netminder, according to Evolving Hockey’s model. He was remarkably inconsistent, one of the biggest reasons why the Wild missed the playoffs for the first time in four seasons. He was even possible trade bait last summer because the Wild had re-signed Marc-Andre Fleury and top goaltending prospect Jesper Wallstedt was knocking on the door of an NHL job.
The 26-year-old has rebounded with a .919 save percentage, starting 11 of 15 games for a red-hot Wild team that’s second in the Central Division. Minnesota’s defensive play has been significantly sharper compared to last year as well, which has to be noted because the environment in front of a goaltender often has a major impact.
Jensen had a long history of being a rock-solid two-way driver on Washington’s second pair, but his play fell off hard last season at 33 years old.
The usually steady right-shot defender lost his matchups across the board (in shots, chances and actual goals) by fairly wide margins in 2023-24. Why? One reason he looked off may be that his skating — which is one of his best assets — declined last season. NHL Edge data shows that his speed bursts over 20 miles per hour and top speed fell compared to the year prior.
Jensen’s skating has rebounded (he ranks in the top 10 percent of all defensemen for speed bursts over 20 miles per hour) which has powered a renaissance start for him in Ottawa.
Jensen speed bursts over 20mph so far
| Jensen bursts over 20 mph | League Average | Jensen’s percentile |
|---|---|---|
Data according to NHL Edge
He’s been the perfect fit next to Thomas Chabot, driving a near 56 percent share of shot attempts and a plus-8 goal differential at five-on-five. Jensen has been a stabilizing force because of his
Mark Stone’s impact on the Vegas Golden Knights is undeniable—he possesses puck-moving prowess, sharp defensive reads, valuable secondary offensive contributions (six points in 15 games), and a competitive, physical playing style. He fills a crucial void for the Senators, who lacked a top-four right-shot defender besides Artem Zub, solidifying their blue line.
Recent discussions surrounding Stone have touched upon a couple of minor concerns.
The most evident is his health; he’s averaged 45 games played over the past three seasons. A subtler point is that his typically elite defensive performance dipped last year. Vegas controlled only 50.6% of expected goals with Stone on the ice, and he ranked 11th out of the team’s 13 forwards in conceded high-danger chances—a departure from the stellar two-way results we’ve come to expect from him.
Stone’s Two-Way Numbers
|
Season |
5v5 xGF% |
|---|---|
His first-round playoff series last year was also underwhelming, with three points in seven games, territorial domination on the wrong side (controlling less than 40% of scoring chances), and being outscored 4-0 during five-on-five shifts against Dallas.
These factors have led to Stone’s name appearing less frequently in conversations about the league’s best franchise-caliber wingers. However, his electric start to the 2024-25 season serves as a reminder that he remains an elite player.
The 32-year-old has amassed 21 points in 13 games. Although he’s missed the last three due to injury, he’s expected back soon. If anything, his absence over the last three games (Vegas’ only win during this span was against Anaheim) highlights his irreplaceable value.
Stone has primarily played on the top line with Jack Eichel, a combination the Golden Knights haven’t frequently utilized. Together, they’ve formed a dynamic duo, outscoring opponents 12-5 at five-on-five.
Detroit’s decision to trade a second-round pick to San Jose for Walman and his relatively modest contract ($3.4 million cap hit) appears questionable in hindsight. While Walman had a less impactful 2023-24 season, he faced some of the toughest defensive assignments alongside top pair partner Moritz Seider, among all NHL defensemen.
A 25-year-old is rapidly rebuilding his value in San Jose. Walman has tallied nine points in 13 games, averaging nearly 23 minutes per contest. Most impressively, he’s defying expectations and winning his matchups despite playing for a struggling Sharks team. Notably, Walman is the only defenseman on the roster where the Sharks generate more shots and expected goals than they concede. This translates to tangible results, with San Jose boasting an 8-7 edge in five-on-five goals during his minutes on the ice. He has undeniably emerged as the team’s top defenseman.
Sharks Blue Line Metrics
|
Player |
5v5 CF% |
5v5 GF% |
|---|---|---|
Walman has missed four games this season – three due to an upper-body injury and one as a healthy scratch for missing a treatment session – but is expected to return to the lineup soon.
Honorable Mentions:** _Tim Stützle, Alex Ovechkin, Kaapo Kakko, Tyler Seguin, Jake Oettinger, Andrei Vasilevskiy, Jared Spurgeon, Jake Middleton, Brandon Montour, Jared McCann, Brendan Gallagher, Jack Roslovic, Jesperi Kotkaniemi, Nico Hischier, Alex Pietrangelo, Rasmus Andersson, Barrett Hayton, Rickard Rakell, Tom Wilson, Dougie Hamilton, John Carlson, Mikhail Sergachev_
(Photos of Mark Stone and Tage Thompson: Candice Ward and Timothy T. Ludwig / Imagn Images)
# Resurgence and Redemption: Nine NHL Players Thriving After Setbacks
The world of professional sports is a whirlwind of triumphs and tribulations. NHL players, often lauded for their unmatched skill and athleticism, are not immune to setbacks. Injuries, slumps, trade rumors, or even personal challenges can cast a shadow over a promising career. However, the true measure of greatness lies not in avoiding adversity but in rising above it.
These nine NHL players serve as inspiration, proving that resilience and determination can lead to remarkable comebacks and redefine success on the ice.
## Overcoming Adversity: Stories of Grit and Determination
**1. Steven Stamkos (Tampa Bay Lightning)**
Stamkos’s journey is a testament to unwavering spirit. In 2013, he suffered a gruesome torn right lateral meniscus during an exhibition game, threatening his career. After rigorous rehab and mental fortitude, he returned stronger than ever, leading the Lightning to back-to-back Stanley Cup victories in 2020 and 2021.
**2. Sidney Crosby (Pittsburgh Penguins)**
Crosby’s impact on the NHL is undeniable, but his path hasn’t been without obstacles. From concussions early in his career to navigating intense media scrutiny, he has consistently proven his mettle. His dedication to physical and mental well-being ultimately led him back to championship glory with three Stanley Cup titles (2009, 2016, 2017).
**3. Alexander Ovechkin (Washington Capitals)**
Ovechkin’s prolific scoring prowess is legendary, but his pursuit of the Stanley Cup was met with considerable heartbreak in the early years. After years of playoff disappointments, he finally broke through in 2018, leading the Capitals to their first championship with a dominant performance. This victory solidified Ovechkin’s place among hockey’s all-time greats.
**4. Jonathan Toews (Chicago Blackhawks)**
Toews is renowned for his leadership and clutch performances during Chicago’s three Stanley Cup triumphs (2010, 2013, 2015). However, he faced a significant challenge when chronic immune system issues forced him to miss parts of the 2019-20 season. He battled back with remarkable resilience, proving his commitment to both his team and the game.
**5. Tyler Seguin (Dallas Stars)**
Seguin’s career experienced a major shift after being traded from Boston to Dallas in 2013. Facing criticism and adjusting to a new environment, he blossomed into one of the league’s most dangerous offensive threats. In 2019-20, he led the Stars on an improbable playoff run, scoring crucial goals along the way.
## Finding Strength in Setbacks
| Player | Setback | Comeback Story |
|———–|———————–|—————————————————|
| Stamkos | Torn Lateral Meniscus | Led Tampa Bay to back-to-back Stanley Cups |
| Crosby | Concussions | Three-time Stanley Cup Champion |
| Ovechkin | Years of Playoff Losses | Won Stanley Cup in 2018 |
| Toews | Chronic Immune Issues | Returned stronger, leading Blackhawks to success |
These stories demonstrate that setbacks are not roadblocks but opportunities for growth. Overcoming adversity can lead to:
* **Increased Resilience:** Facing challenges head-on builds mental toughness and the ability to bounce back from future obstacles.
* **Enhanced Focus:** Adversity often forces players to reevaluate their priorities and refocus on what truly matters.
**Practical Tips for Navigating Setbacks:**
* **Seek Support:** Lean on coaches, teammates, family, and friends for emotional support and guidance.
* **Develop a Growth Mindset:** View setbacks as learning experiences that can lead to improvement.
* **Celebrate Small Wins:** Acknowledge progress along the way to maintain motivation and momentum.
By embracing these principles, athletes can transform adversity into a catalyst for personal and professional growth. The stories of these NHL stars serve as inspiration for anyone facing their own challenges, reminding us that the ability to overcome obstacles is what truly defines success.
