The NHL is known for its unpredictability, and every season brings a mix of expected powers, rebuilding projects, and teams ready to surprise. The last couple of seasons have been no different, with franchises like Buffalo, Pittsburgh, Anaheim, and Philadelphia proving that missed playoff appearances can pave the way for triumphant returns. As we look ahead to the 2026-27 season, several teams are poised to make a comeback, either sneaking into a playoff spot or positioning themselves as serious championship contenders. Here’s an early look at who could be the surprise teams next season.
Washington Capitals: Not Done Yet
Despite missing the playoffs in the 2025-26 season, the Washington Capitals have shown signs of life that suggest they could bounce back in 2026-27. The narrative around the Capitals has shifted; many believe their older core may be nearing its end. However, they remained competitive, finishing the season with a 43-win record and a commendable goal differential of +23, both numbers indicative of a better team than the standings reveal.
Defensively, they boast key players like Jakob Chychrun, while Logan Thompson stands out as a top-tier goalie for the squad. The absence of center Pierre-Luc Dubois for a significant portion of the last season hurt their offensive depth, but he is set to return. With a solid foundation of veterans and promising young talent, the Capitals are in a position to utilize their salary-cap flexibility and two first-round picks as potential trade assets, which could enable them to land a key player to help push them back into contention.
Florida Panthers: Stripped but Not Broken
The Florida Panthers faced adversity in the prior season, missing the playoffs despite expectations that were set high due to their roster's talent, particularly when healthy. The team dealt with injuries that sidelined Aleksander Barkov and diminished Matthew Tkachuk’s presence, leaving them with a depleted lineup for much of the year. Returning these stars, along with the addition of a top-10 draft pick as a potential trade chip, puts the Panthers back in the conversation for a successful season ahead.
They should not be underestimated heading into 2026-27, even if they finished poorly last season. Assuming good health, they have the tools and talent to improve significantly. A more effective season from their core players could put them back into the playoff mix.
San Jose Sharks: Ready for Growth
The San Jose Sharks are set to undergo a transformation similar to that of the Anaheim Ducks in recent years. Although they finished outside the postseason picture, their young star Macklin Celebrini is already making waves as one of the premier talents in the NHL. To become a playoff contender, the Sharks need to work on their defense and add depth to their lineup.
The off-season will be critical. Improvements in the development of their young players, including Michael Misa, will be pivotal. Furthermore, holding the second overall pick in the draft and significant salary-cap space provides the Sharks with ample opportunity for off-season maneuvers. With the right moves, they could close the gap between them and the playoff qualifiers of the Western Conference.
New Jersey Devils: A Chance to Rebuild
The New Jersey Devils find themselves at a crossroads with a new management direction under General Manager Sunny Mehta. With prolific talents like Jack Hughes still in the prime of their careers, the hope is that they can return to playoff contention. Health was a big factor for the Devils last season and if they can keep their key players off the injured list, a substantial turnaround could be in the cards.
The Eastern Conference remains tough, making their path challenging. However, taking a forward-thinking approach could yield a series of positive results, provided they can support Hughes and build on the existing foundation of the team.
Utah Mammoth: Emerging Powerhouses
Having entered the playoffs as a difficult matchup for opponents, the Utah Mammoth faced an early exit against the dominant Vegas Golden Knights. However, their exciting young core, including players like Clayton Keller and Logan Cooley, gives clear signs of potential. The Mammoth excelled in various metrics throughout the regular season, especially during even-strength play.
With an aggressive front office looking to enhance their roster, they’re not merely going to coast on past successes. If they can successfully add to their top-six forward group, they could very well position themselves as a serious competitor not just for a playoff berth but for greater aspirations in the Western Conference.
As the NHL offseason approaches, it's clear that many franchises are on the verge of significant improvements. The Capitals, Panthers, Sharks, Devils, and Mammoth all possess the qualities that could turn them from overlooked teams into playoff-caliber squads. The journey to success will certainly depend on the trades, draft strategies, and injury management these teams implement over the coming months.
