2025-26 NHL Season Power Rankings: Assessing Teams' Performances at the One-Month Mark
The NHL season of 2025-26 has reached its one-month mark, and it's time to assess the teams' performances so far. In this edition of the Power Rankings, we will compare the preseason over/under point totals with each team's current points pace to see which teams are exceeding or falling short of expectations.
The Colorado Avalanche, with a preseason over/under of 103.5 points, are currently outperforming that projection with just one regulation loss in 14 games, putting them on a pace for 123 points. They are off to a strong start this season.
The Montreal Canadiens, not expected to be dominant in 2025-26, have surprised many by maintaining a points pace of 117.1, well above their preseason over/under of 90.5. They are proving to be a force to be reckoned with this season.
The Winnipeg Jets, projected to be below their previous season's performance, are defying expectations with a points pace of 113.5, surpassing their preseason over/under of 97.5. They are currently competing at a high level.
The New Jersey Devils, expected to return to the playoffs, are ahead of last season's pace with a points pace of 117.1, exceeding their preseason over/under of 99.5. They are on track for another successful season.
The Vegas Golden Knights, a perennial Western powerhouse, continue to impress with a points pace of 107.2, above their preseason over/under of 104.5. Jack Eichel's performance is a key factor in their success.
The Salt Lake City Mammoth, with a young and talented core, are on track for a playoff spot with a points pace of 105.4, surpassing their preseason over/under of 92.5. They are a team to watch this season.
The Carolina Hurricanes, known for their consistent performance, are maintaining a points pace of 113.5, above their preseason over/under of 105.5. They are poised for another strong season.
The Anaheim Ducks, once considered a rising Western power, are exceeding expectations with a points pace of 119.8, well above their preseason over/under of 83.5. They are proving to be a formidable team.
The Detroit Red Wings, under the "Yzerplan," are showing signs of returning to playoff contention with a points pace of 105.4, surpassing their preseason over/under of 84.5. They are making progress towards their postseason goal.
In conclusion, the 2025-26 NHL season has seen some teams exceed expectations while others have fallen short. It will be interesting to see how these teams continue to perform as the season progresses.