The onset of a new NHL season brings an electrifying atmosphere filled with high hopes and aspirations, particularly for fans anticipating their team's pursuit of the Stanley Cup. However, some teams are likely to shift their focus toward securing the top selection in the upcoming draft. While the excitement surrounding the new season is palpable, a realistic lens reveals that seven teams may be more inclined to monitor prospects like James Hagens or Porter Martone rather than aiming for playoff contention. This analysis seeks to present an objective assessment of the current landscape, recognizing that optimism remains, but it is prudent to acknowledge the challenges that lie ahead.
The Anaheim Ducks have struggled significantly in recent seasons, recording the league's worst record two years ago and finishing third-worst last year. Nevertheless, these challenges have enabled the Ducks to secure promising draft picks such as Leo Carlsson, Beckett Sennecke, and Stian Solberg. Coupled with the existing young talent including Trevor Zegras, Mason McTavish, and Pavel Mintyukov, the Ducks appear to be on an upward trajectory. Although there is potential for improvement this season, they may still find themselves in contention for the number one pick, especially given that other teams in the Pacific Division, such as San Jose and Calgary, are also facing their own struggles.
In stark contrast to the Ducks, the Calgary Flames are grappling with significant losses in talent over recent years. Notably, Jonathan Huberdeau has yet to meet expectations, and Nazem Kadri's consistency has not been sufficient to alleviate the burden placed on players like Blake Coleman, Mikael Backlund, and MacKenzie Weegar. The offseason trade of Jacob Markström to New Jersey signals an effort to rebuild the goaltending situation, now led by either Dustin Wolf or Daniel Vladar. While prospects such as Connor Zary and Yegor Sharangovich present some hope, overall optimism for the Flames is markedly low, suggesting they could be contending for a top draft selection this season.
The Chicago Blackhawks have remained in the spotlight since winning the lottery two years ago to select Connor Bedard. Fans outside Chicago expressed dismay at the potential for another high draft pick as the Blackhawks vie for the number one selection again this year. The roster has undergone adjustments to become more competitive, and with a season that saw them earn 52 points, there is hopeful anticipation for improvement. Nonetheless, the crowded Central Division presents formidable competition from teams like Nashville, Dallas, Colorado, and Winnipeg, making the path to playoff contention a challenging one for Chicago.
Similarly, the Columbus Blue Jackets find themselves in a precarious position heading into the season. Despite the challenges following the trade of Patrik Laine to the Canadiens, and the unfortunate situation surrounding Johnny Gaudreau, there remains a pressing need for the team to bolster its offensive capabilities. Goalkeeper Elvis Merzlikins must regain his form while the development of young talents Adam Fantilli, David Jiricek, Cole Sillinger, and Kent Johnson becomes paramount. With a competitive Metropolitan Division, where teams such as New Jersey and Washington have made significant upgrades, the situation appears challenging for Columbus as they attempt to regroup and potentially secure a lottery pick in the draft.
For the Montréal Canadiens, the preseason has presented a significant hurdle before the season has even commenced. The team faced injuries to key players, including Patrik Laine and first-round pick David Reinbacher, casting a shadow over their aspirations for the Atlantic Division. Despite the challenges, there remains a glimmer of hope, particularly if players like Cole Caufield and Kaiden Guhle can remain healthy throughout the season. The possibility that their misfortunes could lead them to a number one pick might serve as a catalyst for positive changes moving forward.
The Ottawa Senators are navigating a season filled with heightened expectations to reach the playoffs. Following a couple of disappointing efforts to break through, the team faces the threat of a significant collapse if the season's trajectory falters. While the acquisition of goaltender Linus Ullmark aims to address past deficiencies, the potential for star players like Brady Tkachuk and Tim Stützle to succumb to injury further complicates matters. Should the Senators struggle, a focus on acquiring a top draft selection could provide an opportunity for future success.
Although the San Jose Sharks have made strides in recent drafts and secured players like Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith, they are still in a rebuilding phase. The presence of seasoned veterans is balanced by a youthful roster that will need time to grow and gel as a cohesive unit. Should the Sharks navigate another challenging season, they can take solace in future prospects, as accumulating top draft picks can help them transition into a competitive force.