Overview of the 2026-27 NHL Season Start
With a whirlwind of activity and anticipation, the first week of the 2026-27 NHL season has come to a close. Each team has left a mark, even if it's too early to draw definitive conclusions. The adjusted preseason and training camp have made analyzing early performance even more challenging, but we can certainly assign preliminary grades based on what we've witnessed thus far.
Team Grades and Performances
Anaheim Ducks - Grade: A
Despite expectations of a downturn after a tumultuous offseason, the Anaheim Ducks have surprised everyone with a strong start, boasting a record of 2-0-0. Leading the charge is Leo Carlsson, their superstar center, who has accumulated five points in two games. His impressive performance hints that the Ducks may defy preseason skepticism about their capabilities.
Boston Bruins - Grade: C+
The Bruins are relying heavily on their star players, particularly goalie Jeremy Swayman, who has a .914 save percentage across three games. Young players like JJ Peterka and James Hagens are stepping up, scoring crucial goals, but the overall defensive structure needs improvement if they're to compete effectively this season.
Buffalo Sabres - Grade: A
Following the offseason loss of players like Bowen Byram, concerns lingered regarding the Sabres' potential regression. However, they have started the season strong, winning two out of their first three games while maintaining a commanding expected goals share of 65.8% at 5-on-5 play, hinting at promising offensive potential.
Calgary Flames - Grade: F
The Flames have endured a tough start, having been dismantled in their opening games with a staggering goal differential of 16-3. This extensive rebuild coupled with a lack of offensive firepower makes it clear that this season may be a long struggle.
Carolina Hurricanes - Grade: A
The defending champions haven't missed a beat, consistently dominating play and earning points in three out of their four opening games. Their ability to control shots and the territory speaks volumes about their mindset and tactics, signaling that they will be a formidable team once again.
Chicago Blackhawks - Grade: D-
The absence of Connor Bedard has been palpable for the Blackhawks, resulting in a challenging start characterized by numerous growing pains. Relying on young talent in tough scenarios has yet to yield fruitful results, and the outlook is grim as they continue to develop.
Colorado Avalanche - Grade: A
Holding a perfect record of two wins in two games, the Avalanche's offensive stars like Nathan MacKinnon and Martin Nečas are making headlines once again. Their seamless integration of talent indicates they will be a force to reckon with in the Western Conference.
Columbus Blue Jackets - Grade: B+
The Blue Jackets welcomed Matthew Knies, who has quickly become a standout player with two goals and two assists in his debut. However, consistency remains an issue, as the team has shown flashes of brilliance interspersed with lackluster performances. Coach Rick Bowness faces challenges in steering the franchise towards stability.
Dallas Stars - Grade: C-
The Stars have faced hurdles early on, with a mixture of performances leading to an underwhelming start. Nevertheless, the return of key players like Roope Hintz is a positive sign for a team with championship aspirations, although they have yet to find their rhythm.
Detroit Red Wings - Grade: B+
The Red Wings find themselves in a complex situation, grappling with internal turmoil while trying to build momentum. After two rocky games, a recent victory against Ottawa may provide hope for a season turnaround.
Edmonton Oilers - Grade: B+
While the Oilers thrive offensively behind stars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, concerns linger regarding defensive stability and goaltending. Their ability to complement top talents with capable support will be crucial going forward.
Florida Panthers - Grade: D+
Despite an unbeaten record of 2-0-2, the Panthers have struggled to assert dominance in games, often playing from behind. Injury concerns for key players threaten to hinder their progress as they aim for a return to playoff contention.
Los Angeles Kings - Grade: B
The Kings have settled into a monotonous level of play, demonstrating average performance but lacking the spark needed for a deep postseason run. Strong defensive skills, combined with a lack of standout playmaking, may limit their potential.
Minneapolis Wild - Grade: C
The Wild have benefited from outstanding performances by goalie Jesper Wallstedt, whose strong play has kept them competitive. Despite inconsistent overall team play, their ability to rely on talented goaltending has so far yielded a positive record of 2-0-1.
Montreal Canadiens - Grade: C+
The Canadiens have shown offensive prowess with players like Cole Caufield and Nick Suzuki leading the scoring. Nonetheless, defensive flaws have led to high goal concessions, highlighting areas for improvement moving forward.
Nashville Predators - Grade: C-
Nashville's intentions to contend remain ambiguous, muddled by an aging core and recent roster decisions. Strong contributions from players like Steven Stamkos offer promise, but overall performance needs to improve.
New Jersey Devils - Grade: C
The Devils have struggled to find their offensive rhythm, reflected in a poor shooting percentage early in the season. Goaltending woes are raising alarms, and unless resolved, it could severely limit their playoff hopes.
New York Islanders - Grade: A-
With star goalie Ilya Sorokin leading the charge, the Islanders' performance showcases considerable potential, even with ongoing injuries to key players. Expectations are high, and their early start hints at a solid season ahead.
New York Rangers - Grade: B
The Rangers are navigating through games with strong goaltending from Igor Shesterkin amidst a shifting roster. While their underlying numbers may not reflect top-tier play, securing early wins points to a potentially bright season.
Ottawa Senators - Grade: F
The Senators have had a troubled start characterized by ugly play and disappointing results. The once-promising team is now struggling to find direction, facing immense scrutiny moving forward.
Philadelphia Flyers - Grade: B-
The Flyers sport impressive forward depth, with promising young talent emerging. Their ability to generate offense must be matched with solid defensive play for them to reach playoff aspirations.
San Jose Sharks - Grade: C
The Sharks have shown hints of offensive potential, primarily through emerging talents. However, defensive lapses continue to plague them, raising concerns for their long-term success this season.
Seattle Kraken - Grade: C-
The Kraken have demonstrated superiority over struggling teams but faced difficulties against top opponents. Currently residing in a middle-ground, they must elevate their game to contend more effectively.
St. Louis Blues - Grade: B
Despite mixed performances, the Blues can still find traction within a strong squad. They appear poised for a competitive season if they can balance individual talent with cohesive team play.
Tampa Bay Lightning - Grade: C+
The Lightning appear to have potential pitfalls to address despite solid performances from top players. Depth concerns may hinder overall progress if not adequately addressed during the season.
Toronto Maple Leafs - Grade: A
With star players performing well, the Maple Leafs are entering the season with confidence, although defensive play remains a question. Should goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky regain form, the team's trajectory could remain strong.
Utah Mammoth - Grade: B
The Mammoth's strong performance against lesser opponents suggests they are a team to watch. Their capability to score consistently bodes well for a potential playoff run.
Vancouver Canucks - Grade: A
Against low expectations, the Canucks are exceeding early season assessments, fueled by standout performances from players like Elias Pettersson. Their ability to continue that momentum will be key moving forward.
Vegas Golden Knights - Grade: B-
The Golden Knights are benefiting from strong individual performances, notably from Jack Eichel. Maintaining momentum through a challenging schedule will be crucial for their playoff prospects.
Washington Capitals - Grade: A
With a strong start led by a deep roster, the Capitals are shaping up for a promising season as they strive to deliver a farewell fitting to Alex Ovechkin as he approaches retirement.
Winnipeg Jets - Grade: A-
The Jets enter the season with a solid start, leveraging their offensive capabilities while navigating the ongoing challenge surrounding goalie Connor Hellebuyck's future. They appear to be navigating the storm well.
