The New Jersey Devils were booted from last year’s playoffs after losing in overtime to the Carolina Hurricanes. Although, it was a step in the right direction compared to previous years. They look to be a cup contender for years to come. Acquiring veteran forwards Tyler Toffoli and Timo Meir, along with Jack Hughes entering his prime. This team will make a deep playoff run.
The Buffalo Sabres went up four spots in the league standings last season, winding up at the 20 spot. Do not overlook this team though, with forward Tage Thompson blossoming in his past two seasons. Thompson went from having 14 points in 2020-2021, 68 in 2021-2022, and 94 points in 2022-2023. It is safe to say that he looks to lead this team on an inclined rate to playoff contention within the upcoming seasons.
The Colorado Avalanche dealt with a cup hangover last season, losing to the Seattle Kraken in surprising fashion in the first round of the playoffs. With that, not knowing the time frame of captain Gabriel Landeskog’s injury, traveling to Europe early on in the season, and having some drama around the team in the playoffs. Their general manager Chris MacFarland has been busy in the office this offseason, adding to the depth of this powerhouse squad. With the additions of Ross Colton, Ryan Johanson, and Johnathan Drouin, this team looks to get back to their winning ways.
The Edmonton Oilers are a do-or-die team. After falling short in the playoffs to the Vegas Golden Knights, they have other plans this year. This team is known for its star power, having Connor McDavid, Leon Draisitle, and adding Mattias Ekholm on their back end. Will this team finally live up to their expectations?
Last but not least, The Carolina Hurricanes look to bounce back after getting stunned by the darkhorse team in the Florida Panthers, who went onto the cup finals in the playoffs. Carolina is in the same boat as the Oilers, they have been a top-ranked team in the east for quite some time now. After signing Sebastion Aho to a massive eight year extension, he plans on leading his team to the Cup.
This season will be a test for all of these top contenders, with a ton of pressure on all of these teams’ backs, only one can come out on top.
