NHL Power Rankings Take Shape: Bruins and Kraken Surge, Lightning Fall Hard
NHL Power Rankings Overview
The early stages of the NHL season often bring notable shifts in team rankings, especially as perceptions adjust around overachievers and underachievers. The first in-season edition of B/R's Power Rankings reflects these changes, with surprising movements for teams like the Boston Bruins and Seattle Kraken.
Bruins and Kraken Rise
Despite missing the playoffs last spring, the Boston Bruins and Seattle Kraken have opened the new season positively, launching 21 spots upwards to 8th and 9th respectively, from their previous positions at 29th and 30th. Their performances have sparked hope, yet the challenge remains to sustain this momentum.
Lightning's Sudden Decline
On the other side of the spectrum, the Tampa Bay Lightning, who were considered serious Stanley Cup contenders, have plummeted from 6th to 22nd after a rough 1-2-1 start. With 16 goals allowed in these matches, their defensive struggles are raising eyebrows among fans and analysts alike.
Team Spotlights
Among other highlights in the rankings, the Buffalo Sabres, while starting with three defeats and a disappointing record, recently secured a significant victory against the Senators, winning 8-4. New York Islanders' rookie defenseman Matthew Schaefer has started impressively, but the team falters with an 0-3-0 record, marking an unfortunate historical start.
Injuries and Debuts
Injury woes are beginning to surface, notably with senators’ Brady Tkachuk expected to miss significant time due to a hand injury. On a brighter note, 18-year-old Michael Misa made his debut for San Jose as part of the NHL's nightly festivities, highlighting the league’s continual influx of young talent.
Looking Ahead
As teams continue to grapple with injuries and performance inconsistencies, fans are eager to see how these rankings evolve through the length of the season. The upcoming games will be crucial for teams striving to improve their standings or maintain a competitive edge.
For more details and to share your opinions, join the discussion in the app comments.
