NHL Power Rankings Ahead of Regular Season Start
25. Winnipeg Jets
The Jets had an opportunity this summer to improve upon their weaknesses and become a contender once again in the Western Conference. Instead, this is a team with no direction and major flaws that should come into this year with average-at-best expectations.
24. Seattle Kraken
Seattle had a tough time during its inaugural campaign, but the Kraken had a strong offseason. With multiple Stanley Cup champions entering the mix in 2022, I see this as a team that could surprise some people.
23. New York Islanders
The Islanders said goodbye to head coach Barry Trotz, promoting from within to find his replacement. Without their Stanley Cup-winning coach and without any injection of offensive firepower, the Islanders won’t be competitive in the Eastern Conference.
22. Vancouver Canucks
Vancouver is the ultimate wild card. The talent is there to make the Canucks a team that you have to watch out for, yet the lack of success is evident. In a weak Pacific Division, Vancouver can’t be counted out, but has this team given us any reason to count them in?
21. Dallas Stars
It’s a new year but the same story for Dallas. Unless the newly signed Mason Marchment can provide an offensive boost for the Stars, this is an aged-out team that won’t be able to score enough goals to make the playoffs.
20. Columbus Blue Jackets
The Blue Jackets made the signing of the summer when they inked Johnny Gaudreau. Add in a new deal for Patrik Laine, and this is a team with some serious star power. Does Columbus have enough depth and/or experience to make things interesting in the Metro?
19. Anaheim Ducks
The Ducks feel poised to take a leap forward this year after signing a trio of high-quality players in free agency. Several playoff spots in the West are open for the taking, so is Anaheim ready to pounce and claim one of those spots?