Emotions on the Surface in the NHL: Initial Season Analysis
Sport, in all its magnitude, is capable of awakening a whirlwind of emotions. In the world of ice hockey, the recent NHL season has been no exception, with teams that have surprised, disappointed, and left fans on the edge of their seats. Below, an analysis of the teams that have generated the greatest impact in these first weeks. New York Rangers forward Mika Zibanejad personifies the emotional rollercoaster that players can experience. His team, unable to score in their first three home games, an unprecedented fact in NHL history, left him debating between laughter and tears. With a 2-3-0 record under new coach Mike Sullivan, the Rangers are still looking to solidify their offensive game. Their wins against the Buffalo Sabres and Pittsburgh Penguins suggest potential, but the real test lies in their ability to perform against tougher rivals. This uncertainty in New York is just one example of the many reactions that have arisen in the hockey world. The 2025-26 NHL season is just beginning, and there’s already a lot to talk about.Positive Surprises
In this season’s start, some teams have managed to exceed expectations, generating enthusiasm among their fans.Boston Bruins
Record: 3-1-0
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What happened: The Bruins started the season with an impressive 3-0-0, matching the current champions, the Florida Panthers, in the best statistical start. This achievement is even more remarkable considering that the previous season, the Bruins failed to meet expectations, missing the playoffs.
The key to success: Last season was atypical for Boston, with Jeremy Swayman’s underperformance and injuries to key players. However, the low expectations for this season seem to have freed the team. The good performance of David Pastrnak and goaltender Jeremy Swayman have been fundamental in this start.Will the good times continue? The defeat against the Tampa Bay Lightning shows that the Bruins will have to maintain focus to keep competing. Their goal will be to stay in the fight for the playoffs and give experience to their young talents.Seattle Kraken
Record: 2-0-1
What happened: The team went from occupying the last places in the Pacific Division to climbing positions with a solid start. Their victory over the Vegas Golden Knights stands out, demonstrating that teamwork can overcome the lack of a superstar.The key to success: The defense has been strengthened, and the team averages few goals against per game. Goalie Joey Daccord has been key, but the team’s success is based on a collective approach. Jared McCann and Vince Dunn lead the team in points.Will the good times continue? The lack of elite talent could be a factor against as the season progresses. However, the team’s consistent focus could generate positive results.Nashville Predators
Record: 2-1-1What happened: After a disappointing previous season, the Predators are looking for a new identity. With the return of Steven Stamkos and under the direction of coach Andrew Brunette, the team has shown good performance.
The key to success: The team has distributed the offensive game, with Ryan O’Reilly as the center of the first line. Goalie Juuse Saros has been fundamental, and if the defense remains solid and the offense continues to improve, the Predators could exceed expectations.Will the good times continue? Nashville needs to improve its power play and avoid relying exclusively on Saros. However, the team has shown character and potential to fight for a playoff spot.Honorable mention: Anaheim Ducks. The team has found a new momentum under the direction of coach Joel Quenneville, with an outstanding offensive attack.
Initial Disappointments
In contrast to the positive surprises, some teams have had a start to the season below their expectations.Buffalo Sabres
Record: 1-3-0What has happened: The Sabres were not considered title contenders, but their start has been disappointing. Injuries have affected the team, with important absences.The key to the problem: Injuries have played a significant role, and the lack of offensive production has been evident. Despite having key players, the team has failed to generate the expected performance.Will the bad moment continue? The Sabres need an improvement in their execution. The return of some injured players could be a boost, but the team needs to regain confidence to reverse the situation.Vancouver Canucks
Record: 1-2-0
What has happened: The team’s stars have not achieved the expected performance, leading to an irregular start. The team is in the bottom positions of the Pacific Division.The key to the problem: The lack of chemistry in the first line has affected the offensive performance. In addition, the team’s highest-paid player, Elias Pettersson, has not performed as expected.Will the bad moment continue? The team needs to improve its offense and generate more opportunities. The defense must be solid to compensate for the lack of offensive production.(Dis)honor mention: Vegas Golden Knights. The team also faces chemistry problems in its first line, with the need to find the right combination among its stars.
