Experts have provided insights into the NHL’s point projections for the 2025-26 season, analyzing all 32 teams. This annual assessment features projections based on a comprehensive model by The Athletic’s Dom Luszczyszyn and discussions from analysts like Shayna Goldman and Sean Gentille. The evaluations cover potential standings, star player performances, and team dynamics for the upcoming season.
2025-26 NHL Point Projections Overview
- Chicago Blackhawks: Projected Points – 70.8; Verdict – About right.
- San Jose Sharks: Projected Points – 73.2; Verdict – Too high.
- Pittsburgh Penguins: Projected Points – 74.1; Verdict – Too low.
- Seattle Kraken: Projected Points – 76.6; Verdict – Too low.
- Nashville Predators: Projected Points – 78.6; Verdict – About right.
- Philadelphia Flyers: Projected Points – 79.1; Verdict – About right.
- Boston Bruins: Projected Points – 79.9; Verdict – About right.
- Calgary Flames: Projected Points – 80.8; Verdict – About right.
- Anaheim Ducks: Projected Points – 81.9; Verdict – Too low.
- New York Islanders: Projected Points – 83.3; Verdict – Too low.
- Detroit Red Wings: Projected Points – 83.4; Verdict – About right.
- Columbus Blue Jackets: Projected Points – 85.7; Verdict – Too low.
- Vancouver Canucks: Projected Points – 89.9; Verdict – About right.
- Buffalo Sabres: Projected Points – 90.1; Verdict – About right.
- St. Louis Blues: Projected Points – 90.3; Verdict – Too low.
- Utah Mammoth: Projected Points – 90.5; Verdict – About right.
- Montreal Canadiens: Projected Points – 92.1; Verdict – About right.
- Minnesota Wild: Projected Points – 93.0; Verdict – Too low.
- Washington Capitals: Projected Points – 93.8; Verdict – Too low.
- Ottawa Senators: Projected Points – 94.2; Verdict – About right.
- New York Rangers: Projected Points – 94.2; Verdict – About right.
- Los Angeles Kings: Projected Points – 94.8; Verdict – Too low.
- Florida Panthers: Projected Points – 96.0; Verdict – About right.
- New Jersey Devils: Projected Points – 97.6; Verdict – About right.
- Winnipeg Jets: Projected Points – 100.5; Verdict – About right.
- Toronto Maple Leafs: Projected Points – 101.2; Verdict – About right.
- Dallas Stars: Projected Points – 103.1; Verdict – Too low.
- Carolina Hurricanes: Projected Points – 103.8; Verdict – About right.
- Vegas Golden Knights: Projected Points – 104.0; Verdict – About right.
- Colorado Avalanche: Projected Points – 105.1; Verdict – About right.
- Tampa Bay Lightning: Projected Points – 107.3; Verdict – About right.
- Edmonton Oilers: Projected Points – 109.0; Verdict – About right.
Notable Trends in Projections
Several teams exhibit potential for points increases or decreases based on offseason changes and player performances. The Chicago Blackhawks, projected at 70.8 points, might struggle without significant improvements. The Dallas Stars, however, could surpass their projected total of 103.1 points, leveraging the motivation following past shortcomings.
The Edmonton Oilers aim for a better season, with projections indicating 109 points, reflecting their potential to build on last year’s challenges.
Key Takeaways
- Teams like the Vancouver Canucks and Philadelphia Flyers are projected to balance between playoff contention and struggle, making them teams to watch.
- Analysts are optimistic about the potential of younger talents in places like Anaheim and Columbus to help reshape team fortunes.
- The return of key players from injuries can dramatically influence point totals, notably for teams like the Minnesota Wild.
As the season approaches, these projections set the stage for excitement and competition across the NHL landscape, with numerous storylines anticipated. Fans and analysts alike eagerly await the unfolding drama of the 2025-26 season.
