Introduction

As Thanksgiving approaches, the NHL landscape remains shrouded in uncertainty, making it tricky to determine which teams are true contenders and which are pretenders for the 2025-26 playoffs. Parity is at an all-time high this season, particularly in the Atlantic Division, where not a single team boasts a positive goal differential. Let's dive into the middle-of-the-pack teams and assess their playoff potential.

Anaheim Ducks: Contender

The Anaheim Ducks have stood tall in the Pacific Division with a 12-6-1 record, currently holding a +10 goal differential. Their consistency has been impressive, featuring a strong youth movement underscored by the contributions of Chris Kreider and Jacob Trouba. Goalie Lukas Dostal has delivered a .903 save percentage, while rookie Leo Carlsson is tied for fourth in the league with 26 points in 19 games. Based on their performance, the Ducks appear to have taken a step up this season.

Boston Bruins: Inconclusive

Leading the Atlantic Division are the Boston Bruins, who have transformed a difficult start into a remarkable seven-game winning streak, climbing to a 12-9-0 record. While players like Morgan Geekie and David Pastrnak have stepped up, the team has notable inconsistencies and has not secured a definitive position among the league's elite. Their upcoming games will be crucial in determining whether their early success reflects a true turnaround or merely capitalizes on the division's current weaknesses.

Chicago Blackhawks: Pretender

The Chicago Blackhawks have delivered an entertaining start to the season, led by rookie sensation Connor Bedard's 26 points. Their 9-5-4 record places them tied with several teams in the Central Division, highlighting the competition's intensity. However, while showing growth under new coaching, the Blackhawks still have work to do before they can be considered true playoff contenders.

Detroit Red Wings: Pretender

After a promising start, the Detroit Red Wings have faltered, currently holding an 11-7-1 record with a negative goal differential. Key players like Dylan Larkin are showing promise, but goaltending issues from John Gibson and Cam Talbot raise serious concerns. Without necessary improvements, the Red Wings remain pretenders moving toward the trade deadline.

New York Islanders: Contender

The Islanders have experienced a significant turnaround, primarily led by rookie defenseman Matthew Schaefer, who has earned seven goals and 15 points. With a record of 10-7-2, they are in the playoff conversation, and if goaltender Ilya Sorokin can regain consistency, a postseason push seems feasible.

Pittsburgh Penguins: Pretender

Despite a solid start to the season, the Pittsburgh Penguins are currently dealing with injuries and uncertainty in goal as Tristan Jarry is sidelined. Their 10-5-4 record is under pressure, and the overall reliance on Jarry raises red flags on their playoff viability. As the trade deadline nears, it seems plausible that the Penguins might embark on a retooling phase if they continue to fade.

Conclusion

As we approach Thanksgiving, the NHL remains unpredictable with teams experiencing rapid movements in standings. Each team's defining moments will emerge in the coming weeks, solidifying their positions as either contenders or pretenders.