NHL Power Rankings: Summer Storylines for All 32 Teams

As the NHL offseason continues, we take a deep dive into the summer storylines and Power Rankings for all 32 teams heading into the 2025-26 season. From blockbuster trades to key re-signings, here's what you need to know about your favorite team.

How We Rank

Our Power Rankings are determined by a panel of ESPN hockey experts who evaluate each team's potential for the upcoming season. The rankings are based on a combination of offseason moves, player development, and overall team strength.

Top 10 Teams to Watch

1. Florida Panthers

   • Pre-playoff ranking: 11
   • Stanley Cup odds: +600
   • Key Storyline: The Panthers re-signed their core players and are aiming for a historic three-peat.

2. Edmonton Oilers

   • Pre-playoff ranking: 10
   • Stanley Cup odds: +850
   • Key Storyline: After another Stanley Cup Final loss, the Oilers are focused on improving their goaltending and securing Connor McDavid's future.

3. Dallas Stars

   • Pre-playoff ranking: 3
   • Stanley Cup odds: +1000
   • Key Storyline: With a new coach and the Mikko Rantanen Era in full swing, the Stars are poised for another deep playoff run.

4. Carolina Hurricanes

   • Pre-playoff ranking: 7
   • Stanley Cup odds: +800
   • Key Storyline: The Hurricanes added Nikolaj Ehlers to bolster their offense and aim for postseason success.

5. Vegas Golden Knights

   • Pre-playoff ranking: 4
   • Stanley Cup odds: +850
   • Key Storyline: The Knights landed Mitch Marner in free agency, but face salary cap challenges as they prepare for another championship run.

6. Winnipeg Jets

   • Pre-playoff ranking: 1
   • Stanley Cup odds: +2500
   • Key Storyline: The Jets added Jonathan Toews to their roster, hoping his experience can lead them back to the playoffs.

7. Colorado Avalanche

   • Pre-playoff ranking: 5
   • Stanley Cup odds: +750
   • Key Storyline: The Avs addressed their second-line center issue and are looking to make another Stanley Cup push.

8. Toronto Maple Leafs

   • Pre-playoff ranking: 6
   • Stanley Cup odds: +2000
   • Key Storyline: The Leafs lost Mitch Marner but signed Matthew Knies, keeping the drama alive in Toronto.

9. Washington Capitals

   • Pre-playoff ranking: 2
   • Stanley Cup odds: +3000
   • Key Storyline: Alex Ovechkin is chasing 900 goals, but the Caps are focused on a deeper playoff run.

10. Tampa Bay Lightning

    • Pre-playoff ranking: 9
    • Stanley Cup odds: +1400
    • Key Storyline: The Lightning continue to manage their roster within the salary cap, aiming for another long playoff run.

Other Notable Teams

• Los Angeles Kings (Rank: 11): The Kings made key veteran signings and are looking to build on their strong schedule release video.
• Minnesota Wild (Rank: 12): The Wild added Vladimir Tarasenko, hoping he can rediscover his scoring touch.
• New Jersey Devils (Rank: 13): The Devils focused on depth moves and are looking to build around Luke Hughes.

Bottom of the Pack

• San Jose Sharks (Rank: 31): The Sharks are still rebuilding but added promising talent in Michael Misa.
• Chicago Blackhawks (Rank: 32): The Blackhawks are focused on developing their young roster, with Connor Bedard's extension looming.

Conclusion

The 2025-26 NHL season promises to be another exciting year, with plenty of storylines to follow. From the Panthers' quest for a three-peat to the Oilers' search for redemption, there's no shortage of drama in the NHL. Stay tuned for more updates as the season approaches!