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The NHL season has officially begun. Are you curious?
Perhaps not, as that’s an unusual word that tends to be used for gimmicks like this, but let’s proceed. To kick off the new year, here’s my annual roundup of names from around the league that I’m particularly keen to follow this season.
I’ll be highlighting 12 forwards, six defensemen, and two goalies, along with one coach and one general manager. Each team will have one representative, accompanied by enough honorable mentions to give every team its due. To add an extra challenge and spread the intrigue, no player from last year’s list will be included.
As with all successful teams, we’ll start from the goal line and work our way out. Last year’s list featured an American goalie who secured a new contract and ultimately took home the Vezina Trophy. Can we achieve that feat for a second consecutive year?
Goalies
Jeremy Swayman, Bruins
The first goaltending selection is a straightforward choice, as Swayman returns to the Bruins following a rather contentious contract negotiation. Fortunately, it seems both parties reached a mutually agreeable figure. However, after missing nearly all of training camp and seeing his backup struggle in the season opener, Swayman and his new contract will definitely be under scrutiny in the early part of the season.
Jacob Markstrom, Devils
The trade to the Devils finally took place, albeit later than expected. Following last season’s disappointing performance, the Devils are anticipated to contend again now that their goaltending issues have seemingly been addressed. That said, dealing with goalies is rarely straightforward, particularly when you’re looking at a 34-year-old on a new team. Nevertheless, it needs to click in New Jersey, simply because it must.
Honorable mentions: The acquisition of Darcy Kuemper initially seemed more like a salary dump the Kings had to execute to move on from Pierre-Luc Dubois, yet he enters the season as the starter in a pivotal year for him.
Defensemen
Evan Bouchard, Oilers
Edmonton boasts plenty of star power, but much of it is well-known. Leon Draisaitl has secured his contract, Connor McDavid is expected to excel in whatever awards he chooses to pursue this year, and Zach Hyman has consistently surprised us with his high performance. However, for me, Bouchard stands out as the most intriguing narrative on the team, as his potential remains uncertain. Could he be a first-pair defenseman? A Norris Trophy contender? Or perhaps even a Norris winner? All possibilities are on the table. Yet, at just 24 years old and only stepping into the spotlight last year, he might have already reached his peak. The Oilers must come to a resolution quickly, as he will need an extension soon.
Moritz Seider, Red Wings
Another player with a significant new contract to fulfill, Seider brings along discussions about his actual skill level. After winning the Calder Trophy in his debut season, Seider seemed destined to join young stars like Cale Makar, Adam Fox, Quinn Hughes, and Rasmus Dahlin in the Norris race each year. Although he hasn’t reached that level yet, he is still just 23. He has ample time to prove himself. Now, with a sizable contract in hand, the pressure is“`html
Gustav Forsling has proven to be an exceptional waiver acquisition by Panthers GM Bill Zito. (Bruce Bennett / Getty Images)
Gustav Forsling, Panthers
Every few years, a defenseman transitions from the status of “oh yeah, that guy” to “unexpected Norris candidate” seemingly overnight, capturing the attention of the hockey world all at once. Past candidates include Anton Stralman and MacKenzie Weegar, suggesting this might be a trend in Florida. Last season, Forsling stepped up as the standout player that every team wishes they had found. Not a bad outcome for a waiver pickup, and I’m eager to see how his story unfolds from here.
And since we just brought him up …
MacKenzie Weegar, Flames
Do you recall that amusing episode of “The Simpsons” where all the All-Star players are eliminated one by one, only for you to remember that Darryl Strawberry remains? Despite their recent player sell-off, the Flames still retain a few valuable assets, including Nazem Kadri and Jonathan Huberdeau. Among them is Weegar, a player whose reputation has diminished since joining Calgary, even though he continues to produce solid numbers. Interestingly, he was one of just four defensemen to net 20 goals last season, alongside Makar, Dahlin, and Roman Josi. That’s impressive company, raising the question of whether a market could develop for the 30-year-old despite having six years left on his contract.
Mikhail Sergachev, Utah
Remember that peculiar interim period when Utah lacked a team but had ample cap space and draft picks, being linked to various prominent names in the league? Ultimately, they converted that situation into acquiring Sergachev and not much else. This may have been a prudent decision, considering that extravagant spending often doesn’t pan out well in this league. Nonetheless, it will be intriguing to see how Sergachev performs as the leading defenseman after years of learning from
I previously mentioned Thomas Harley as a long-shot candidate for the Norris Trophy, which isn’t the most outlandish prediction I’ve made about a Stars defenseman. Although his Calder campaign didn’t finish as strongly as anticipated, Brock Faber now has a new contract and significant expectations to meet in his second year with the Wild. Meanwhile, with Jakob Chychrun out of the picture and Thomas Chabot firmly established in the middle-pair phase of his career, Jake Sanderson has a clear path to elevate his status in Ottawa.
Forwards
Alexander Ovechkin, Capitals
There’s no need for embellishment regarding our pick for Washington; Ovechkin enters the season poised for a historic achievement. He stands just 42 goals away from surpassing Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goal record, a benchmark that many fans like myself once believed to be unattainable. Anticipate regular updates on Ovechkin’s scoring pace and when—or if—he will seize the crown.
Matvei Michkov, Flyers
Coming into the league, Michkov has garnered as much, if not more, excitement than any Flyers prospect since Eric Lindros. No pressure, right? While Flyers fans will surely keep a close eye on him, supporters of the six franchises that passed on him in last year’s draft will be watching as well, partly due to concerns about him being a difficult sign. A year later, here he is. We’ll see if he’s up for the challenge.
Jake Guentzel, Lightning
Steven Stamkos, Predators
Yes, that still appears odd. It’s overly simplistic to assert that the Lightning opted for Guentzel over their long-standing captain Stamkos. Nonetheless, it isn’t entirely inaccurate, which will lead to a season-long evaluation of Julien BriseBois’s decision-making regarding tough choices. Should we declare a winner based solely on which player has more goals at any given time? Not necessarily, but we probably will.
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With just one year remaining before he enters the UFA market, Ehlers stands out as one of the prominent players heading into a pivotal contract year. Whether he becomes a target at the trade deadline will hinge on the Jets’ performance throughout the season; however, a strong start from the 28-year-old winger would certainly add intrigue.
Mitch Marner, Maple Leafs
Another pending UFA, and it’s hardly surprising to find him on this list. Following yet another disappointing postseason, Leafs management appeared poised to dismantle the core, with Marner being a likely candidate for a trade. The fanbase, while not completely united, largely supported this move. Yet, nothing transpired—no trades, nor extensions—and even his staunchest opponents now seem re-engaged, envisioning him potentially capturing the Art Ross Trophy. Thus, it seems we’ve returned to the usual routine, where everything Marner does (or doesn’t do) will be scrutinized to the point of exhaustion, continuing for another 81 games.
Vincent Trocheck, Rangers
While the focus in New York remains on the Igor Shesterkin contract situation, which is expected to unfold primarily off the ice, I’m turning my attention to Trocheck. The seasoned veteran, who has spent 11 years in the league, enjoyed a surprisingly elite season last year. If he can replicate or even exceed that performance, the Rangers’ top six will be in excellent condition. Conversely, if he sees a decline, the quiet offseason could start to appear unwise for a competing team with its four leading scorers all over 30.
Tomas Hertl, Golden Knights
The blockbuster trade that brought him to Vegas during last year’s deadline—unexpected and thrilling—was a memorable event. We jokingly noted how the salary cap seemed not to apply to the Golden Knights, making the situation entertaining for everyone involved. However, Hertl managed only three goals and five points in 13 games across the regular season and playoffs, including a mere single point during the Knights’ first-round exit. Although he was recovering from surgery, it would be reassuring to witness early contributions from a healthy Hertl given his contract extends through 2030.
Shane Wright, Kraken
I’ve always had a quiet fascination with the No. 4 pick from the 2022 draft. Perhaps my interest stems from being present that night when Montreal fans reacted dramatically to the Canadiens selecting Juraj Slafkovský instead, followed by Wright’s bemused look in their direction. Fast forward two years, and it appears the Habs may have made the right choice, as Wright has struggled to make a significant impact in the NHL thus far. Nonetheless, Harman argues that he could be poised for a breakout this season, so it will be interesting to see how that unfolds.
Trevor Zegras, Ducks
I must confess that I’m uncertain about what to anticipate from Zegras in both the short and long term. Initially, I believed he was a top-notch prospect and a future cornerstone for the Ducks franchise. However, management seems unconvinced about at least one of those assertions, if not both, given how frequently his name appears in trade discussions. Nevertheless, he remains part of the lineup, still positioned in a top-six role and potentially the team’s most recognizable player. Is he still the player we thought he was? Did he ever truly“`html
Needle swings this year will reveal a lot.
J.T. Miller, Canucks
Two years ago, Miller signed a $56 million extension that many criticized before it even took effect. Currently, he’s coming off a spectacular 103-point season, making that criticism seem somewhat unwise … perhaps. At present, he’s certainly earning every dollar, but with his 32nd birthday this season and six years remaining on his contract, any indication of a decline this year could spell trouble for Vancouver. Or, maybe, the earlier criticism of the contract was simply misguided.
Honorable mentions: I can’t list Connor Bedard again since he was last year’s selection, so let’s highlight Chicago’s Taylor Hall, a former MVP looking to bounce back after a lost season. Regarding No. 1 picks, they are essentially essential in this type of column, thus Macklin Celebrini is a clear choice for the Sharks. Casey Mittelstadt showed promise during the playoffs with the Avalanche, so it will be interesting to see what he can accomplish in his first full season as their second-line center. Additionally, in Pittsburgh, Drew O’Connor has not garnered much attention over parts of four NHL seasons, but he might receive an opportunity alongside Sidney Crosby, potentially becoming this season’s Mark Donk.
Coach and GM
Lindy Ruff, Sabres
It’s rare to see someone return to the team that initially hired him 27 years ago, yet here we are. The key question is whether Ruff was the best candidate for the role or simply a predictably popular choice made by an overwhelmed GM aiming to buy some time with a disgruntled fan base. Ruff performed wonders with the Devils two years ago, and the Sabres would be thrilled to see even a fraction of that success repeated in Buffalo. However, nostalgia fades quickly, and the season has already started off on an uncertain note.
GO DEEPER
‘I see more joy from him without losing the intensity’: Inside Lindy Ruff’s return to the Sabres
Doug Armstrong, Blues
It has been quite a while since we’ve witnessed a GM entering the season after multiple summer offer sheets. I’m not sure if there has ever been a GM who begins a season fully aware that he has exactly two years left before his publicly announced successor takes over. Armstrong was already regarded as one of the best GMs in the league. What will he do now that he seems to be in his “gray hair, don’t care” phase? Likely miss the playoffs with a mediocre roster, but only time will tell.
Honorable mentions: He seems to face an almost
Tracking Intriguing Names as the NHL Season Kicks Off: Key Players, Coaches, and GMs to Watch
Key Players to Watch in the 2024 NHL Season
The start of the NHL 2024 season is an exciting time for fans and analysts alike as teams gear up for a competitive year. This season features several standout players poised to make a significant impact. Below are some key players to keep an eye on:
- Connor McDavid (Edmonton Oilers) – Known for his incredible speed and scoring ability, McDavid continues to be a frontrunner in discussions about the league’s best players.
- Auston Matthews (Toronto Maple Leafs) – As a prolific goal scorer, Matthews is crucial to the Maple Leafs’ aspirations this season. His performance will greatly influence Toronto’s playoff chances.
- Igor Shesterkin (New York Rangers) – The young goaltender has proved essential for the Rangers, and his skills in the crease will be critical in tight games.
- Cale Makar (Colorado Avalanche) – As one of the premier defensemen in the league, Makar’s ability to contribute both defensively and offensively makes him a player to watch.
Breakout Stars to Watch
This season also promises emerging talent, with several players expected to break out and leave their mark:
- Matty Beniers (Seattle Kraken) – The 2021 draft pick showed flashes of brilliance last season, and many expect him to take a significant step forward this year.
- Quinton Byfield (Los Angeles Kings) – With his size and skill, Byfield is a promising young forward who could play a pivotal role for the Kings.
Coaches Under the Microscope
Coaching decisions can make or break a season. Here are some coaches whose strategies and leadership will be crucial this year:
- Jared Bednar (Colorado Avalanche) – After winning the Stanley Cup in 2022, Bednar’s ability to maintain team morale and performance is paramount as the Avalanche aim for another championship run.
- Jon Cooper (Tampa Bay Lightning) – As one of the most respected coaches in the league, Cooper’s tactical prowess will be key in navigating the Lightning through the competitive Eastern Conference.
General Managers to Keep an Eye On
The decisions made by general managers significantly affect team dynamics. Here are a few GMs who are making headlines:
- Lou Lamoriello (New York Islanders) – Renowned for his strategic acumen, Lamoriello’s moves leading up to and during the season will be closely monitored.
- Bill Guerin (Minnesota Wild) – After some bold trades last season, Guerin’s strategies could either elevate the Wild’s performance or lead to challenges.
Benefits of Tracking Key Players and Staff
Staying informed about key players, coaches, and GMs can enhance your viewing experience. Here are some benefits of following these intriguing names closely:
- Enhanced Understanding: Knowing player stats and coaching styles can deepen your appreciation for the game.
- Informed Discussions: Engaging in conversations with fellow fans becomes more interesting when you have insights about key figures.
- Fantasy Hockey Edge: If you participate in fantasy leagues, tracking player performances and coaching strategies can give you a competitive advantage.
Upcoming Games to Watch
As the NHL season kicks off, certain games are circled on the calendar due to their significance or the star power involved:
| Date | Matchup | Key Player to Watch |
|---|---|---|
| October 14, 2024 | Edmonton Oilers vs. Colorado Avalanche | Connor McDavid |
| October 15, 2024 | Toronto Maple Leafs vs. New York Rangers | Auston Matthews |
| October 16, 2024 | Seattle Kraken vs. Los Angeles Kings | Matty Beniers |
First-Hand Experience: Following the Season
Many fans enjoy tracking their favorite teams and players throughout the season. Here’s how you can enhance your experience:
- Use Sports Apps: Download apps like the NHL’s official app for real-time updates, highlights, and statistics.
- Join Fan Forums: Engage with fellow fans on platforms like Reddit or team-specific forums to discuss strategies and performances.
- Watch Pre-Game Shows: Pre-game analysis can provide insights into matchups and player conditions that impact game outcomes.
Case Studies: Impact of Key Figures
Examining past seasons can provide insights into how key players, coaches, and GMs affected their teams:
- 2022-2023 Season – Colorado Avalanche: The Avalanche’s success was largely attributed to Cale Makar’s defensive play and Jared Bednar’s strategic game plans.
- 2021-2022 Season - Tampa Bay Lightning: Jon Cooper’s leadership was instrumental in guiding the Lightning through a challenging playoff run.
Practical Tips for Following the NHL Season
To get the most out of following the NHL season, consider these practical tips:
- Set Notifications: Enable notifications for your favorite teams to stay updated on scores and news.
- Attend Games: If possible, attend live games to experience the atmosphere and excitement first-hand.
Conclusion
As the NHL season unfolds, keeping track of these key players, coaches, and GMs will undoubtedly enrich your viewing experience. From thrilling matchups to standout performances, the 2024 season promises to be unforgettable.
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