NHL Season Preview: Burning Questions for Each Team as Training Camps Approach
Jonathan Toews' return to the NHL with his hometown team is a highly anticipated event. The contract situations of Kirill Kaprizov and Connor McDavid could have significant impacts on the Wild and Oilers, respectively. As training camps approach and the preseason is set to begin, The Athletic asked its staff to identify one burning question for each NHL team. The responses highlighted intriguing storylines to watch out for in the upcoming season.
The potential absence of Mason McTavish, a notable unsigned restricted free agent, poses a challenge for the Florida Panthers as Joel Quenneville returns to coaching. The Bruins face offensive concerns beyond David Pastrnak and Morgan Geekie's goal-scoring prowess. The Sabres aim to improve their team defense and goaltending after a disappointing season. The Flames are expected to trade Rasmus Andersson, which could have significant implications for their roster and future direction.
Carolina's defense undergoes significant changes with the addition of K'Andre Miller and the departure of key players. The Blackhawks look to Jeff Blashill to lead a promising young group to the next level. The Avalanche's top-six lineup is strong, but their bottom six needs to step up for a successful season. The Blue Jackets face a goaltending dilemma between Elvis Merzlikins and Jet Greaves.
The Stars must address Jason Robertson's contract situation and playoff scoring issues. The Red Wings hope to see improvements from their defense corps with new additions. The Oilers aim to avoid distractions as Connor McDavid enters a contract year. The Panthers seek to maintain their elite status after back-to-back Stanley Cup wins.
The Kings face questions about their roster changes and their ability to break the cycle of first-round playoff losses. The Wild navigate the uncertainty surrounding Kirill Kaprizov's contract negotiations. The Canadiens rely on Kirby Dach as their No. 2 center. The Predators look to rebound from a disappointing season under coach Andrew Brunette.
The Devils await Luke Hughes' contract resolution, which will impact their cap situation. The Islanders undergo significant changes under new coach Mathieu Darche. The Rangers turn to Mike Sullivan to stabilize their defense after missing the playoffs. The Senators count on their core players to prove themselves in the upcoming season.
The Flyers hope Trevor Zegras can excel as a center, providing an offensive boost. The Penguins face a goaltending competition among several contenders. The Sharks look to Misa and Dickinson as key players in their young core. The Kraken aim to address their goaltending depth and lack of elite talent.
The Blues rely on Pavel Buchnevich to regain his offensive form after signing a new contract. The Lightning seek to bounce back from a disappointing playoff exit with depth additions. The Maple Leafs focus on Auston Matthews' health and the search for a new right-wing candidate. The Mammoth have a competitive battle for the backup goalie spot between Connor Ingram and Vitek Vanecek.
The Canucks face uncertainties surrounding their top players and first-year head coach, with Elias Pettersson needing to step up as a game-breaker. As the NHL season approaches, these storylines will unfold, shaping the narrative for each team's journey in the upcoming season.