NHL First Week Insights: 10 Early Observations on Rangers Calder Race and More
The NHL’s first week of the 2025-26 season has brought excitement and challenges for various teams. With only a handful of games played, early trends are already surfacing. Here are ten significant observations from the opening week.
NHL First Week Insights: 10 Early Observations on Rangers Calder Race and More
Tampa Bay’s Defensive Struggles
The Tampa Bay Lightning are facing critical issues on defense. Their aging blue line shows a significant lack of speed, prompting concerns after three consecutive first-round playoff exits. The team has allowed eight goals during rushes, averaging two per game this season. Key defenders like Victor Hedman and Erik Cernak appear slower, raising red flags about their playoff prospects unless improvements are made.
Anaheim Ducks’ Offensive Transformation
Under new head coach Joel Quenneville, the Anaheim Ducks are revolutionizing their offense. They rank third in the NHL for five-on-five shot attempts and fifth in expected goals per 60 minutes. The addition of Chris Kreider has greatly enhanced their power play, which currently operates at an impressive 36.4 percent. Young stars like Leo Carlsson and Mason McTavish are also making noteworthy contributions, which positions the Ducks as a potential wild-card contender in the Western Conference.
Demidov-Schaefer Calder Race Heating Up
The race for this season’s Calder Trophy looks promising with newcomers like Ivan Demidov and Matthew Schaefer taking the spotlight. Demidov, a favorite for the award, is already showcasing his offensive talents. Schaefer, the first overall pick, is also making headlines with impressive performances, setting the stage for an exciting competition among rookies.
Vancouver Canucks Face Early Challenges
The Vancouver Canucks’ shaky start has fans concerned. With a record of 1-2-0, their performance has been less than inspiring. Their only solid showing was against the Edmonton Oilers, where goalie Thatcher Demko’s skills were crucial. The team needs to tighten up their offense and reduce turnovers to regain momentum on their upcoming five-game road trip.
Kirill Marchenko’s Inspiring Performance
In Columbus, Kirill Marchenko is solidifying his place as a top-tier player, already recording four goals in three games. While skeptics question the longevity of his previous season’s success, early signs indicate he can sustain his high level of play. His continued output will be vital for the Blue Jackets this season.
L.A. Kings’ Blue Line Concerns
The Los Angeles Kings have encountered difficulties after their offseason blue line renovations. Signings of Cody Ceci and Brian Dumoulin have not yielded positive results. With a record of 1-2-1, the Kings have struggled defensively and need better team performance as they seek to stabilize their season.
Martin Necas Poised for a Big Contract
Having accumulated eight points in four games, Martin Necas is making the most of his final contract year. The Colorado Avalanche forward has shown brilliance alongside teammates like Nathan MacKinnon. His impressive start to the season positions him to negotiate a lucrative new deal this summer.
Buffalo Sabres’ Slow Start
The Buffalo Sabres have had a rocky beginning, suffering from injuries and lackluster performances. Despite earning two points against the Senators, their opening losses raised concerns about their competitiveness this season. The team’s struggles highlight the need for a swift turnaround as they confront ongoing challenges.
New York Rangers’ Scoring Woes
The Rangers are grappling with scoring difficulties, particularly at home. After failing to find the net during their first three home games, attention shifts to their offensive roster. The absence of consistent scoring threats could hinder their ability to compete effectively unless adjustments are made.
Jeremy Swayman on the Rise
Boston Bruins’ goalie Jeremy Swayman is showing signs of recovery after a challenging previous season. Strong performances in the season’s opening games offer hope that he can regain his elite form. Continued success will be vital for the Bruins as they seek to improve their standings in the league.
- Tampa Bay faces defensive slowdowns.
- Anaheim shows offensive potential with new coaching.
- Demidov and Schaefer heat up Calder Trophy race.
- Vancouver shows signs of disarray early on.
- Marchenko shines in Columbus.
- L.A. Kings’ offseason acquisitions backfire.
- Martin Necas in line for a significant contract extension.
- Buffalo Sabres need to rally after a poor start.
- Rangers struggle with scoring at home.
- Jeremy Swayman demonstrates significant improvement.
As the NHL season progresses, these early observations will shape the narrative for each team. Coaches and players must adapt quickly to ensure success as the competition intensifies. Fans can expect more thrilling highlights as the race for playoff spots unfolds.
