With the NHL preseason drawing to a close, it`s time to identify which players are poised for a significant breakthrough in the upcoming 2025-26 season, both in their on-ice roles and statistical output. Following the success of players like Dylan Guenther and Matthew Knies, who notably elevated their game after appearing on this list last year, several other promising talents who might not have shone brightly previously are now strong candidates for a breakout. Traditionally, a `breakout` isn`t solely about offensive numbers; it can also signify an expanded role in even-strength situations, increased special teams responsibilities, or facing tougher opposition. This year`s selection predominantly features players expected to assume more substantial roles, with some also predicted to deliver a more conventional offensive surge.
Undoubtedly the most anticipated name on this list, Connor Bedard seems poised for his breakthrough season after two years that, while solid, fell short of the astronomical expectations placed upon him. It`s worth recalling that even a superstar like Nathan MacKinnon took until his fifth NHL season to reach his full, dominant potential, suggesting patience is key for the comparatively smaller Bedard. While preseason performance isn`t definitive, Bedard consistently showcased his exceptional shot and elite vision throughout September. Assuming he remains healthy, he is projected to exceed a point-per-game pace. To secure a spot on the Olympic team, he would need to maintain an 85- to 90-point trajectory by the time the roster is finalized—a feat well within his capabilities. Bedard`s moments of brilliance are undeniable, but consistency has been a challenge over his first two seasons. This year, he`s expected to log over 20 minutes per game, taking between three to four shots nightly. His shooting percentage, a common area for improvement in elite shooters, should see an increase. If Bedard converts 13% of 270 shots, he could net 35 goals, a significant jump from his previous 22 and 23-goal totals. He requires more situations, both self-generated and strategically assigned, to truly unleash his offensive creativity. A realistic projection for him this season includes 32 goals and 55 assists, totaling 87 points.
Quinton Byfield
C, Los Angeles Kings
The imposing 6-foot-5, 225-pound center, Quinton Byfield, is poised to become a foundational player for the Los Angeles Kings. He is being groomed to assume the critical top-line center position upon Anze Kopitar`s retirement at season`s end. While Kopitar remains an outstanding talent, the Kings will strategically deploy Byfield in challenging matchups to accelerate his development in all facets of the game. Byfield possesses the rare combination of attributes to become an 80-point scorer while maintaining strong defensive accountability. Increased power-play exposure is anticipated, building on his burgeoning even-strength offensive game from last season. Following two consecutive seasons in the mid-50s for points, Byfield is expected to leverage his exceptional speed, strength, and skill to assert physical dominance during his shifts. With a more prominent role within the Kings` top six, a 30-goal, 45-assist campaign is a very attainable target for him.
Matty Beniers
C, Seattle Kraken
At just 22 years old, Matty Beniers, the Seattle Kraken`s first-line center, has already established himself as one of the NHL`s premier two-way forwards. His reliability across all game situations is a rare quality for a player his age. While his defensive game is strong, Beniers has yet to fully unlock his offensive potential, a development Seattle urgently requires. This season could mark a significant breakthrough for Beniers, potentially placing him squarely in the discussion for the Selke Trophy, awarded to the league`s best defensive forward. Although Selke winners often have strong offensive numbers (which isn`t strictly how the award should be judged), Beniers will gain valuable opportunities on both special teams units to boost his overall impact. New Kraken coach Lane Lambert`s aggressive penalty-kill philosophy will encourage players like Beniers to create offensive chances even when shorthanded. This, coupled with expanded top-line minutes and primary power-play duties, should provide Beniers ample opportunity to elevate his offensive production. After a rookie season with 57 points in a second-line role, Beniers is now consistently facing tougher top-line assignments. If he can surpass 60 points while effectively neutralizing opposing stars, his Selke candidacy will solidify, representing a significant developmental leap.
Zach Benson
LW, Buffalo Sabres
Zach Benson`s inclusion on this breakout list hinges primarily on a likely promotion to the top line alongside Tage Thompson and Josh Norris. Regardless of whether he maintains that specific spot or shifts to a second-line center role to bolster Ryan McLeod`s third-line effectiveness, Benson is undoubtedly set for a substantial increase across all statistical metrics. Following a 28-point season where he averaged less than 15 minutes of ice time, he`s expected to play closer to 19 minutes per game this year. He will also benefit from power-play opportunities and the chance to play with more skilled teammates than in previous seasons. Considering these factors, it`s highly plausible that this exceptionally talented young player could double his offensive output from last season, achieving between 55 and 60 points. While he will face more challenging minutes against elite defenders, Benson`s innate ability to generate offense, coupled with more gifted linemates and increased offensive zone time, should allow him to flourish. The Sabres are clearly relying on their 2023 first-round pick this season, making a stat line of approximately 22 goals and 35 assists a very realistic goal for him.
Cole Perfetti
C, Winnipeg Jets
The departure of Nikolaj Ehlers to Carolina finally clears the path for Cole Perfetti to receive a significant boost in offensive responsibilities. Coupled with his impressive playoff performance for Winnipeg, there`s no justification to withhold him from the top power-play unit or consistent top-six minutes. Given these enhanced opportunities at both even strength and on special teams, it`s highly plausible that Perfetti could achieve a 70-point season in 2025-26. An increase in his average ice time from 15 to 17 minutes per game will naturally translate to more shooting chances. If Perfetti maintains his shooting percentage from the past two seasons, he`s projected to score between 25 and 30 goals. Furthermore, extended power-play exposure will inherently contribute to his offensive totals. This season truly marks `Perfetti time` in Winnipeg, and he appears thoroughly prepared to capitalize on this well-earned chance.
Logan Stankoven
C, Carolina Hurricanes
Logan Stankoven, the talented smaller-statured center, experienced a significant uptick in both ice time and offensive output following his trade from Dallas to Carolina. The Hurricanes effectively utilized Stankoven as their second-line center, a decision that yielded positive results. Similar to Perfetti, Stankoven is expected to average 17 minutes of ice time per game this season, a two-minute increase from his previous average. Positioned alongside either Andrei Svechnikov or Ehlers on his left wing, he will be playing with a highly skilled teammate capable of generating substantial points. Stankoven`s exceptional playmaking could be the catalyst that helps Svechnikov achieve the goal-scoring surge many have anticipated. If paired with Ehlers, both players present a dual-threat offensive attack, with Stankoven possessing the finishing ability to convert opportunities created by Ehlers. Irrespective of his linemates, the combination of an enhanced skill set and expanded opportunities should culminate in increased production for the young Hurricanes center.
