NHL Team Grades: Progress, Struggles, and Surprises Through November 2025

As we reach the midpoint of the 2025-26 NHL season, it's time to evaluate how each team has performed thus far. Teams are graded based on their results, processes, and how well they are meeting expectations. With over a quarter of the season completed, we are beginning to see a clearer picture of which teams are contenders and which are still in the rebuilding phase.

Grade: A - Anaheim Ducks

The Ducks have shown promise despite some defensive concerns. Their offense has been impressive, placing them sixth in points percentage in the NHL and fourth in the Western Conference. With Leo Carlsson emerging as a franchise player, the future looks bright as they work to solidify their defense and potentially end their playoff drought.

Grade: B - Boston Bruins

The Bruins have had a decent season so far, but their overall process raises questions. Despite good results, gaps in their 5-on-5 play and roster construction, particularly in center depth, remain concerns. Recent injuries have tested their lineup, although players like Morgan Geekie have stepped up to prove their worth.

Grade: D - Buffalo Sabres

Still searching for their first playoff appearance in 15 seasons, the Sabres are struggling at the bottom of the Eastern Conference. Their goaltending issues have severely impacted their performance, leaving little room for optimism as ownership challenges continue.

Grade: D- - Calgary Flames

Last season's near-playoff finish seems to be a distant memory for the Flames, as they fail to address offensive deficiencies. With one of the league's weakest scoring lines, they have not capitalized on the elite goaltending from the previous season.

Grade: A - Carolina Hurricanes

Consistently strong, the Hurricanes boast one of the best rosters in the NHL. With standout performances from players like Seth Jarvis and Nikolaj Ehlers, they lead the Eastern Conference and look like serious Stanley Cup contenders, despite challenges in goaltending consistency.

Grade: C - Chicago Blackhawks

Connor Bedard is shining as a superstar, and Spencer Knight has improved the team's goaltending, but the overall performance is lacking. Sitting near the bottom of the league in various metrics illustrates the challenges this young team faces in competing.

Grade: A - Dallas Stars

With only two regulation losses in 29 games, the Stars have made a historic start to the season. Their possession numbers are strong, and with key players performing at a high level, they are poised as contenders entering the playoffs.

Grade: C - Columbus Blue Jackets

The Blue Jackets find themselves in a competitive middle ground in the Eastern Conference. Despite having a promising young roster, the front office's lack of aggressive moves during the offseason has handicapped their performance.

Grade: A - Colorado Avalanche

The Avalanche are dominating this season with two regulation losses and a stellar start. Their historic pace places them among the best teams ever, showcasing their strength in every aspect of the game.

Grade: B - Detroit Red Wings

Key players are performing well, yet the overall roster depth has hindered the Red Wings from breaking free from mediocrity. The franchise needs to address these issues to better support its talented core.

Grade: D - Edmonton Oilers

Once playoff mainstays, the Oilers are struggling to keep pace in the Western Conference. Persistent issues in goaltending and defensive depth plague the team, demonstrating management's shortcomings.

Grade: C - Florida Panthers

With injuries hampering their key players, the Panthers' offensive capabilities have suffered. Compounded by their slow start, they need to recover quickly to avoid falling too far behind as the season progresses.

Grade: C - Los Angeles Kings

The Kings have struggled for consistency as they rely heavily on gaining points through overtime and shootouts. Their playoff potential remains uncertain given their limited regulation wins and depth concerns.

Grade: B - Minnesota Wild

After a rocky start, the Wild have found some rhythm thanks to solid goaltending from rookie Jesper Wallstedt. However, addressing offensive depth remains essential for their long-term success.

Grade: F - Nashville Predators

A selection of poor managerial decisions has led the Predators to their current predicament, suffering from a lack of direction. They now face an uphill battle as they navigate their troubled roster.

Grade: C - New Jersey Devils

Early-season success faltered after losing key player Jack Hughes, revealing the team's depth issues. Continued struggles could impact their playoff aspirations.

Grade: C - New York Rangers

The Rangers have not met the high expectations set for them, showing highlights of potential but marred by inconsistency and lack of scoring threats.

Grade: B - New York Islanders

Even without their star player, the Islanders have shown resilience. They’ll need to continue navigating injuries and finding scoring support as they aim for the playoffs.

Grade: C - Philadelphia Flyers

Improvement under new coaching is evident, yet questions linger about their performance in shootouts and whether they truly possess the qualities of a good team.

Grade: B - Pittsburgh Penguins

With a strong performance in regulation, the Penguins have exceeded expectations, though struggles in overtime remain a concern. Their blend of veteran experience and youth has revitalized their play.

Grade: C - San Jose Sharks

The Sharks are in the process of rebuilding, driven by the successes of prospects like Macklin Celebrini. With a solid core emerging, they need to amplify their efforts in roster construction.

Grade: F - Seattle Kraken

The Kraken have faced reality after an initially impressive start, struggling with offensive production and roster efficacy. Concerns about their future direction loom large.

Grade: B - St. Louis Blues

An inconsistent start for the Blues leaves them hopeful as they work to reverse their fortunes. Their roster has potential but needs to find a cohesive rhythm.

Grade: C - Tampa Bay Lightning

Despite suffering significant injuries on defense, the Lightning continue to persevere, maintaining their competitiveness due to high-level performances from forwards and an elite goaltender.

Grade: C - Toronto Maple Leafs

Signs of improvement in the Maple Leafs could signify a turnaround, but underlying issues remain as they strive to position themselves as playoff contenders.

Overall Reflection

Across the board, the NHL teams are revealing their true colors as the season progresses. From rebounding franchises to those facing existential crises, each team's journey is crucial as they settle into their identity for the remainder of the season.