5 takeaways from Week 1 of the 2019-20 NHL season

Which Surprise Teams Could Be For Real?

Making judgments after just two or three games is silly. But that’s what I’m here for. Which of the early surprise teams could surprise us all by making it to the playoffs?

Edmonton Oilers

If the Sharks don’t turn things around, there’s going to be a wide-open spot for another Pacific Team to grab a spot in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The Edmonton Oilers have a decent shot of doing so after getting out to a 2-0-0 start.

However, I’m not buying into them yet. If the Oilers can generate a respectable amount of offense from guys other than Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, that’s a different story.

Detroit Red Wings

The Detroit Red Wings are off to a 2-0-0 start. However, their success is being driven by three guys – Anthony Mantha, Dylan Larkin, and Tyler Bertuzzi. Those three guys have scored eight of their nine goals so far this season. As I wrote in my season preview, I think the Red Wings have a bonafide top line with those three guys. My issue with them is I don’t see too much else.

Buffalo Sabres

It’s early, but I’ve been very impressed with the Buffalo Sabres so far. Head coach Ralph Kreuger has them playing outstanding hockey. They’ve been lethal with the puck and relentless when pursuing it.

The Sabres are finally generating scoring chances as they should. If they keep playing a strong game, I think they’ll still be a little bit short of the playoffs, but Kreuger appears to have the Sabres playing an exciting brand of hockey.

Anaheim Ducks

Much like the Oilers, the Sharks’ struggles could open a door for the Anaheim Ducks. Goaltender John Gibson has been phenomenal through two games. They haven’t really played anyone yet and their underlying stats don’t stand out, but if their elite goaltender stays healthy, they might not need to be a great team to make the postseason.