NHL Prepares for a New Season: Key Questions for the 32 Teams
After the Florida Panthers lifted the Stanley Cup for the second consecutive time on June 17, and following a decentralized draft with memorable moments and celebrity cameos, the hockey world entered its hibernation period. However, with the change of season and the arrival of the cold, it’s time to prepare for a new NHL season. Below, we analyze the most important questions for the 32 teams in the league, an analysis conducted by experts from Alofoke Deportes. This analysis will help you stay informed about the final decisions regarding the rosters, lineups, and goalkeepers.
Atlantic Division
Boston Bruins
Will Jeremy Swayman be able to be a true starting goalie again? After a significant contract and not-so-good numbers, Swayman must prove he can be a top-tier starting goaltender. What will this mean for the Bruins’ chances this season?Buffalo Sabres
Will Buffalo finally end its postseason drought? After 15 years without participating in the postseason, will the Sabres be able to end their drought? With the arrival of Josh Norris and the new players Josh Doan and Michael Kesselring, what impact will these changes have on Buffalo’s opportunities?Detroit Red Wings
Will John Gibson be a game changer for the Red Wings? Consistency has been a problem for Detroit. With the arrival of John Gibson, will the team be able to improve and reach its potential?Florida Panthers
Are the Panthers built for a third consecutive championship? With the renewal of key players and the acquisition of Daniil Tarasov, will the Panthers be able to overcome the challenges and maintain their dominance? It’s important to consider Matthew Tkachuk’s health and team fatigue. Will the Panthers be able to maintain their level of play and aim for a third title?Montreal Canadiens
Can the Canadiens’ youth movement produce another playoff run?
Contents
Ottawa Senators
Has Ottawa adequately addressed its offensive depth?
Having trouble scoring goals in the 5-on-5 game, will the Senators be able to improve their offense? The team is relying on internal improvement and the performance of players like Dylan Cozens and Fabian Zetterlund.Tampa Bay Lightning
Can the Tampa Bay offense maintain an elite scoring level? Tampa Bay was the team with the most goals last season. Will they be able to maintain their offensive level? With the arrival of Oliver Bjorkstrand and Yanni Gourde, the team hopes that Brayden Point, Jake Guentzel, and Nikita Kucherov will continue their good performance.Toronto Maple Leafs
How will Toronto evolve without Mitch Marner? Marner’s departure leaves a void in the team. The responsibility falls on Auston Matthews, William Nylander, Matthew Knies, and John Tavares. What strategy will coach Craig Berube employ for Toronto to adapt?Metropolitan Division
Carolina Hurricanes
Did Carolina do enough to address her annotation issues? With the arrival of Nikolaj Ehlers, Carolina seeks to improve its offense. Will Jesperi Kotkaniemi, Logan Stankoven, and Seth Jarvis be able to cover the team’s lack of depth?Columbus Blue Jackets
Will Columbus’ defense derail them again? Despite having no problems scoring goals, the defense was a problem for Columbus. Will they be able to improve in this aspect? The incorporation of Ivan Fedotov could be key to the team’s stability.New Jersey Devils
How will Jack Hughes’ health affect the Devils’ season? Hughes is fundamental to the success of New Jersey, but injuries have limited his participation. How can the Devils help Hughes stay on the ice?New York Islanders
How will Matthew Schaefer impact the Islanders’ defense? With the arrival of Matthew Schaefer, will he immediately begin his NHL career? The Islanders’ decision will have short-term and long-term effects on the team.New York Rangers
How will Mike Sullivan restructure the Rangers? With a new coach, Sullivan will have to rebuild the Rangers. Where will Mika Zibanejad play? Who will replace Chris Kreider?Philadelphia Flyers
Have the Flyers improved enough in the right places?
With the arrival of Trevor Zegras and Dan Vladar, the Flyers seek to improve their center and goaltending. Will these changes be enough to improve the team’s performance?Pittsburgh Penguins
Would the Penguins really trade Sidney Crosby?
Is this the time for Pittsburgh to trade Sidney Crosby? Crosby is under contract until 2026-27, but the team is in a restructuring process. Could it be beneficial for both parties?
