The Countdown to the NHL 2025-26 Season

The NHL's 2025-26 regular season kicks off on October 7, with preseason play beginning on September 20. As the offseason drags on, we take the opportunity to analyze each team's top forward heading into the new season. Choosing a standout player can be straightforward for rebuilding teams or those without superstars, while it becomes challenging for teams rich in talent. This evaluation considers each forward's contributions, with many recognized for their offensive skills and others for their overall impact and leadership.

Seattle Kraken: Jared McCann

The Seattle Kraken's quest for a game-breaking superstar continues, but Jared McCann has proven to be a consistent top performer. Selected in the expansion draft, the 29-year-old winger has excelled, averaging over 20 goals a season and racking up 60-plus points in three campaigns, including a career-high 70 points in 2022-23. As the all-time leading scorer for the Kraken, McCann remains their top forward entering the 2025-26 season, although young talents like Matty Beniers, Kaapo Kakko, and Shane Wright could challenge that status.

Anaheim Ducks: Leo Carlsson

The Ducks find themselves with a blend of experienced players and rising stars. Among them, 20-year-old Leo Carlsson stands out with potential to lead the forward line this season following a remarkable sophomore campaign. After securing 45 points in 2024-25, Carlsson, who was the second-overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, is poised to take on a key role as their first-line center.

San Jose Sharks: Macklin Celebrini

Macklin Celebrini, the first overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, has quickly become an essential part of the San Jose Sharks. Despite missing some games last season due to injury, he led the team with 63 points and was a finalist for the Calder Trophy. At just 19, Celebrini is a player the Sharks will lean on as they continue rebuilding.

Chicago Blackhawks: Connor Bedard

Connor Bedard, selected first overall by Chicago in 2023, is expected to emerge as a superstar despite a challenging environment. Injuries limited his first season, but he excelled with 61 points and claimed the Calder Trophy. Last season, he led the Blackhawks with 67 points, indicating he must step up for the team to succeed this season.

Philadelphia Flyers: Travis Konecny

As the Flyers continue their rebuilding efforts, Travis Konecny remains a standout performer. The 28-year-old winger has accumulated 291 points over 347 games, including a career-best 76 points last season. With promising talents like Matvei Michkov emerging, Konecny's ability to lead will be crucial for the Flyers’ improvement.

Toronto Maple Leafs: Auston Matthews

Auston Matthews, the Maple Leafs’ captain, is still among the league's elite forwards, even after a challenging season limited his point total. With a history of exceptional scoring, including multiple 40-goal seasons, Matthews aims to return to form and lead Toronto in its quest for playoff success.

Florida Panthers: Aleksander Barkov

Aleksander Barkov continues to excel, capturing the Selke Trophy for the third time and leading the Panthers offensively. The 29-year-old center’s consistent performance will be vital as the Panthers seek to defend their Stanley Cup title.

The Future Looks Bright

As the season approaches, fans can look forward to breakout performances and the rise of new stars. Whether it's continuing legends or budding talents, the NHL's forward landscape is set for an exciting 2025-26 season.