NHL Teams in the Spotlight: 2025-26 Testing Season
In NHL history, few teams have proven their worth in the face of adversity like the Florida Panthers in recent seasons. After being humiliated in 2022, the Panthers rebuilt their identity under the direction of Bill Zito and Paul Maurice, incorporating key players and strengthening their defense. This strategy led them to three consecutive Stanley Cup Finals, with two consecutive titles, consolidating a true dynasty.
However, a team’s success often leaves little room for others to shine. The 2025-26 NHL season will be marked by the need for several teams to prove their worth. We analyze 13 teams divided into five categories, each with specific challenges and expectations to meet.
The “Now or Never” Teams
This group includes those teams that have been close to the title, but have not yet achieved the coveted championship. The pressure is high, and time is running out to turn potential into victories.
- Edmonton Oilers: After reaching the final in 2024, they seek to prove they can overcome the final obstacle. The question is whether their goaltending, with Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard, will improve and if their offense, reinforced with Jack Roslovic and Andrew Mangiapane, will be enough. Connor McDavid’s contract, which ends in 2028, adds urgency to their quest for the title.
- Carolina Hurricanes and Dallas Stars: Both teams need to reach the final. They have accumulated a large number of playoff wins without reaching the final. Carolina must prove that its dominant possession strategy works in the playoffs, while Dallas needs to show that the changes made in the offseason were effective.
Stories Marked by Adversity
These teams, although successful in the regular season, often fall in the first round of playoffs. Frustration and the need to overcome the ghosts of the past are constant.
- Toronto Maple Leafs: With a history of playoff disappointments, they need to prove they can overcome their past failures. They must prove their offensive capability after the possible departure of Mitch Marner and improve their performance in goal.
- Winnipeg Jets: After a successful regular season, they must prove they can be a playoff team and that Connor Hellebuyck can handle the pressure.
Hype Trains
These teams, with promising young talents, must prove their worth in the playoffs. The potential is high, but consistency is key.
- New Jersey Devils: After a good start, they need to win playoff series to justify expectations.
- Montreal Canadiens and Chicago Blackhawks: Both teams, with young rosters, seek to demonstrate their progress and aspire to compete for the Cup.
Those Seeking Redemption
After a disappointing season, these teams are looking to prove they can be contenders again.
- New York Rangers: Following significant changes, they aim to regain their level and become competitive again.
- Boston Bruins: They must prove they can maintain the legacy of success, led by David Pastrnak, Charlie McAvoy, and Jeremy Swayman.
- Nashville Predators: They need to demonstrate that the previous season was a mistake and that they can regain their level of play.
Breaking the Drought
Pressure mounts for teams looking to end their long playoff droughts.
- Buffalo Sabres: With the longest playoff drought in the NHL, they must prove they can end this streak.
- Detroit Red Wings: They seek to end a nine-season drought and prove that the rebuild has been worthwhile.
