Offseason Team Keys for NHL Teams

April 14: Anaheim Ducks

Projected cap space: $39.55 million

2025 draft picks: 1st, 2nd (WPG), 3rd, 3rd (TOR), 4th (DET), 5th, 5th (EDM), 6th, 7th

What went right? The progress of the team`s young core was a significant positive. Leo Carlsson, unlike his rookie year, played without game restrictions and achieved a 20-goal season. Goalie Lukas Dostal secured 20 wins and ranked among the top 20 in save percentage. Cutter Gauthier nearly reached 20 goals as a rookie. Jackson LaCombe improved from 17 points in 71 games in 2023-24 to 43 points in 70 games, with increased ice time. Mason McTavish recorded his first 20-goal and 50-point season.

These young players are vital for the team`s future and contributed to the Ducks exceeding 70 points after two seasons below 60 points.

What went wrong? The defensive structure around Dostal was lacking. Despite improving their goal differential from minus-91 in 2023-24 to minus-34 this season, indicating some progress, underlying metrics suggest more work is needed. Data from Natural Stat Trick shows the Ducks allowed the most shots, scoring chances, and high-danger chances per 60 minutes in the NHL.

Keys to the offseason: Focusing on the young core remains crucial. Dostal is a restricted free agent expected to receive a significant raise from his $812,500 salary. McTavish, also completing his entry-level contract, needs a new deal. Securing these contracts should still leave the Ducks with ample cap space to add supporting players for the next phase of their development.

Realistic expectations for 2025-26: The Ducks seem to be following a similar trajectory to the Utah Hockey Club in 2024-25. While playoffs might be out of reach for next season, their near point-per-game pace, combined with another year of experience for their core and potential free agency acquisitions, could position them as wild-card contenders late into the season.

April 14: Boston Bruins

Projected cap space: $27.14 million

2025 draft picks: 1st, 2nd (CAR), 2nd (STL), 3rd, 4th (PHI), 5th, 6th, 7th

What went right? Boston`s embrace of a rebuild was their best move this season. After a decade of playoff contention, a step back was inevitable. GM Don Sweeney`s early coaching change from Jim Montgomery to Joe Sacco didn`t provide a boost, leading to a smart decision to become sellers at the trade deadline. The Bruins acquired valuable draft picks, including four in the first two rounds, and added promising players like Casey Mittelstadt and Fraser Minten. Developing chemistry between David Pastrnak and Morgan Geekie offers a potential bright spot for the future.

What went wrong? Starting the season with seven losses in the first 11 games set a negative tone. Losing defenseman Hampus Lindholm to a season-ending injury in November was a major blow, followed by Montgomery`s firing. Jeremy Swayman`s performance in goal was inconsistent after contract disputes. The offense struggled significantly, ranking 29th in scoring at 2.63 goals per game and struggling on the power play (15.5%).

Charlie McAvoy`s injury in February further compounded their issues. These factors underscored the need for significant changes, including potentially moving on from captain Brad Marchand, as the Bruins fell short of past standards.

Keys to the offseason: Hiring a permanent head coach is paramount. Sweeney could promote Sacco or seek external candidates. Once a coach is in place, preparing for a crucial draft with a high first-round pick and two second-rounders is essential, especially given the Bruins` thin prospect pool. The focus will then shift to evaluating young players ready for the NHL and strategically adding veteran players in free agency to support the ongoing rebuild.

Realistic expectations for 2025-26: With Pastrnak as a 40-goal scorer and potential returns to full health for Lindholm and McAvoy, plus a rebound season for Swayman, the Bruins could be an interesting team to watch, even if playoff contention remains a year away. They are not starting from zero.

April 14: Buffalo Sabres

Projected cap space: $22.32 million

2025 draft picks: 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 4th (MIN), 5th, 6th, 7th, 7th (NSH), 7th (WSH)

What went right? Buffalo demonstrated playoff potential this season, holding a postseason spot around Thanksgiving, a key indicator of potential. Tage Thompson`s excellent 44-goal season and point-per-game pace were crucial for their offense. Rasmus Dahlin also continued to excel with 62 points from defense.

GM Kevyn Adams traded underperforming Dylan Cozens and acquired Josh Norris (though mostly injured during his Sabres tenure) for future considerations.

What went wrong? The Sabres extended their playoff drought to 14 seasons, matching the longest active streak in major sports. Despite being in contention, a 13-game winless streak in December derailed their season. Adams made no significant moves at the trade deadline to address team weaknesses. Goaltending was a major issue, with the league`s second-worst save percentage. They allowed the fourth-most goals per game (3.47), undermining their seventh-ranked offense (3.27).

Inconsistencies, like strong starts but weak third periods, and unrealized growth from players like Jack Quinn and Zach Benson, also contributed to their struggles.

Keys to the offseason: Adams` future with the team is uncertain after five playoff-less seasons. Ownership`s decision will be crucial. The Sabres have RFA decisions for Quinn, Peterka, Byram, Levi, and McLeod. Deciding who to retain and who to let go is important.

Addressing goaltending is critical. If Luukkonen and Levi can`t perform consistently, Adams must explore veteran goaltending options to support or lead the team. This is crucial for Buffalo to become a consistent contender.

Realistic expectations for 2025-26: Playoffs are a must. Buffalo has the talent, and management needs to fill the gaps to end their historic playoff drought.

April 14: Chicago Blackhawks

Projected cap space: $29.17 million

2025 draft picks: 1st, 1st (TOR), 2nd, 2nd (DAL), 3rd, 4th, 4th (NYR), 6th, 7th

What went right? The Seth Jones trade was a positive move. Despite Jones wanting to move to a contender, GM Kyle Davidson traded him to the Panthers, receiving a 2026 first-round pick and goalie Spencer Knight, while retaining salary. This secured a goalie for the present and future and added another first-round pick, continuing their trend of multiple first-round picks.

What went wrong? Despite aggressive offseason moves, improvement was minimal. With 22 wins in 78 games, and a goal differential only slightly improved from minus-111 to minus-74, frustration led to coach Luke Richardson`s firing after 26 games, replaced by interim coach Anders Sorensen.

Keys to the offseason: Deciding on the coaching situation—whether to hire Sorensen full-time or look elsewhere—is key. The future of Ryan Donato, a UFA who led the team in goals, needs to be addressed. While they have cap space, strategic spending is crucial.

After re-signing RFAs like Kurashev and Soderblom, the Blackhawks need to use remaining cap space wisely, keeping an eye on the future beyond 2025-26.

Realistic expectations for 2025-26: Next season is crucial. Another year without significant progress could raise serious questions for the front office. Reaching the 70-point mark for the first time since 2019-20 is a target.

The future depends on the development of Connor Bedard, Frank Nazar, and Knight, who are all approaching the end of their current contracts. Progress is essential to build around these key players.

April 14: Detroit Red Wings

Projected cap space: $22.98 million

2025 draft picks: 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 3rd (NYR), 4th (TB), 5th, 6th, 7th, 7th (STL)

What went right? Detroit showed resilience and tenacity, overcoming a slow start with a coaching change from Derek Lalonde to Todd McLellan, sparking a December surge into a playoff spot. Dylan Larkin`s 29 goals and Lucas Raymond`s team-leading 75 points were highlights. Raymond`s development is particularly encouraging. Their fourth-ranked power play (27.6%) was also a strength.

What went wrong? Defensive issues persisted. Detroit allowed the 12th-most goals per game (3.14) while ranking 23rd in scoring (2.81). Their league-worst penalty kill (69.6%) further highlighted defensive weaknesses.

GM Steve Yzerman`s lack of trade deadline moves and continued struggles in free agency acquisitions contributed to their playoff drought, now at nine years. Consistency and a strong defensive structure are lacking.

Keys to the offseason: Yzerman might need to consider bolder moves. Decisions on RFAs Johansson and Soderblom, and UFAs Kane and Lyon are pending. Personnel changes could indicate their future direction.

More scoring depth is needed beyond Larkin, Raymond, and DeBrincat. Improving defense-minded talent and bolstering the blue line are critical to compete in the Atlantic Division.

Realistic expectations for 2025-26: Detroit has playoff potential and should aim for postseason contention. The key question is whether Yzerman will provide the necessary resources to achieve this.

April 14: Nashville Predators

Projected cap space: $17.26 million

2025 draft picks: 1st, 1st (TB), 1st (VGK), 2nd, 2nd (TB), 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 6th (COL)

What went right? Prospect development was a bright spot. Matthew Wood excelled in college before turning pro. Joey Willis improved significantly in the OHL. Justin Barron, Zachary L`Heureux, and Fedor Svechkov gained NHL experience.

What went wrong? Almost everything else. From a playoff team that made significant free agency signings, they plummeted to having the third-worst record. Disconnection was a constant issue. Despite being sixth in shots per game, they were last in goals per game. Their penalty kill was top 10, yet they allowed the seventh-most goals per game.

Keys to the offseason: With three first-round picks and over $17 million in cap space, the Predators have options, especially if they win the draft lottery. They aim to win now and build for the future, shifting to playing young players mid-season. Strengthening this plan is vital to recover from a challenging season.

Realistic expectations for 2025-26: The Predators` direction is uncertain. After being on the rise and making the playoffs, they fell to the lottery. If they miss the playoffs again next spring, the front office will face significant questions.

April 14: New York Islanders

Projected cap space: $28.90 million

2025 draft picks: 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th

What went right? The Islanders showed resilience, positioning themselves as contenders, especially during an 11-3-0 run in January. Individual performances from Bo Horvat (team-leading 54 points) and Anders Lee (team-leading 28 goals) were key.

Noah Dobson`s continued growth and Alexander Romanov`s comfort in his role were positives. GM Lou Lamoriello`s trade of Brock Nelson netted a first-round pick and prospect Calum Ritchie.

What went wrong? The Islanders lacked excellence in key areas. They ranked 25th in scoring (2.77 goals per game) and allowed the 13th-most goals (3.14), with poor power play (13.1%) and penalty kill (72.0%) rankings. Mathew Barzal`s extended injury absence significantly impacted the team. Ilya Sorokin`s goaltending was good but not exceptional.

Lack of difference-makers and no trade deadline additions hurt. Holding onto veterans like Pageau and Palmieri and missing trade asset opportunities for a rebuild overhaul was questionable. Public criticism and team tensions were evident.

Keys to the offseason: Considering a major change is necessary. With $28 million in cap space and high draft picks, deciding the franchise`s direction is critical. Can Lamoriello lead them back to contention, or is a rebuild needed?

RFA decisions for Dobson, Romanov, Perunovich, and Boqvist are crucial for the blue line. Addressing scoring depth, especially after Barzal`s injury, is vital. Step one is honesty about the organization`s current state and direction.

Realistic expectations for 2025-26: After consecutive first-round playoff exits, another one-and-done postseason is likely without significant offseason changes.

April 14: New York Rangers

Projected cap space: $9.67 million

2025 draft picks: 2nd, 3rd (SEA), 4th (ANA), 4th (COL), 5th (MIN), 6th, 6th (SEA), 7th

What went right? GM Chris Drury`s early move to offload Jacob Trouba minimized distractions. The Kakko trade was handled efficiently, and acquiring J.T. Miller was an attempt to boost offense.

Young players like Will Cuylle (20 goals, 43 points) showed growth. Artemi Panarin led the offense (37 goals, 87 points), and Adam Fox anchored the defense.

What went wrong? Major disappointment. As last season`s Presidents` Trophy winners, they were a shadow of their former selves. Consistency, veteran contributions from Zibanejad and Kreider, power play (27th at 17.6%), and resiliency were lacking. They struggled to win when trailing.

Missing urgency and determination was evident. Locker room issues or coaching message ineffectiveness could be factors. A dispiriting loss to Carolina sealed their playoff elimination in a lost season.

Keys to the offseason: Coach Laviolette`s future is uncertain despite previous success. Drastic changes are expected. Assessing the core, deciding who to build around and who to trade, especially Kreider and Zibanejad, is crucial. The blue line needs improvement despite strong goaltending from Shesterkin and Quick. Identifying and fixing leaks is vital, not a full rebuild.

Realistic expectations for 2025-26: Playoff contention is achievable with changes. Standing pat would signal acceptance of poor performance. A renewed determination is needed to reach their potential.

April 14: Philadelphia Flyers

Projected cap space: $25.64 million

2025 draft picks: 1st, 1st (COL), 1st (EDM), 2nd, 2nd (ANA), 2nd (CGY), 2nd (CBJ), 3rd, 5th, 5th (CAR), 6th

What went right? The arrival of Matvei Michkov signaled a new era, with his potential to lead the offense. Young players like Jett Luchanko are promising. Travis Konecny had a strong season before his extension.

GM Danny Briere made moves like trading Farabee and Laughton and firing Tortorella to jumpstart 2025-26.

What went wrong? Key areas were problematic. Goaltending was poor (.888 save percentage), the worst since 2009-10. Ersson wasn`t a reliable No. 1. Power play was 30th (14.9%), and offense was 24th. An 11-of-12 losing streak led to Tortorella`s firing. Something is still missing.

Keys to the offseason: Hiring a head coach is first. Briere will decide on interim Brad Shaw or a new hire. Much work is needed with a permanent coach.

Capitalizing on the draft with three first-round and four second-round picks is crucial. Smart drafting and development are key. They won`t be overly active in free agency, focusing on internal growth and competition for roster spots in training camp.

Realistic expectations for 2025-26: After five playoff-less seasons, challenging for a playoff spot into April is necessary. Briere`s patience needs to yield results.

April 14: Pittsburgh Penguins

Projected cap space: $24.58 million

2025 draft picks: 1st, 1st (NYR), 2nd (WSH), 3rd, 3rd (MIN), 3rd (OTT), 4th, 5th (CHI), 5th (NYR), 6th, 7th

What went right? Crosby`s continued excellence (30-goal season) is a constant. Youth movement with McGroarty and Koivunen gaining NHL experience is positive. Ending the season showcasing young talent was invigorating.

What went wrong? Death by a thousand cuts. Lack of depth beyond the top line, inconsistent scoring beyond Crosby, Rakell, and Rust. Even Malkin struggled. Scoring issues were compounded by defensive problems. Jarry struggled in goal, being demoted to AHL. Leaky defense allowed the second-most goals per game (3.58). Overcoming issues in all game phases was impossible.

Keys to the offseason: Coach Sullivan is likely to stay. Capitalizing on youth movement is key. McGroarty and Koivunen will compete for roster spots. Addressing scoring depth with veteran additions is needed. Defense needs significant improvement. Balancing present and future is crucial, avoiding a full rebuild.

Realistic expectations for 2025-26: Playoff return is not guaranteed without changes. Addressing weaknesses could make them playoff contenders. Major questions remain.

April 14: San Jose Sharks

Projected cap space: $42.19 million

2025 draft picks: 1st, 1st (DAL), 2nd, 2nd (OTT), 3rd (COL), 4th (STL), 4th (WPG), 5th (COL), 7th (NJ)

What went right? Blueprint for the future. Rookies Celebrini (points leader) and Smith (fifth in points) are key. Trade deadline added first-round picks. Two first-rounders in 2025 and 2026. Goal differential improved from minus-150 to minus-98 despite consecutive worst records.

What went wrong? Significant issues expected in a rebuild. Bottom 10 in offense and power play. Worst penalty kill and among worst in defensive metrics.

Keys to the offseason: Lottery pick position (No. 1, 2, or 3) is critical. Third straight draft cycle with lottery pick, fourth in five years. High picks and second first-rounder will advance rebuild. Over $42 million in cap space, but free agency might not be immediate focus.

Realistic expectations for 2025-26: Focus on progress of Askarov, Eklund, Celebrini, and Smith. Continued development under coach Warsofsky. Potential free agency moves or trading veterans for more draft capital for future plans.

April 14: Seattle Kraken

Projected cap space: $21.75 million

2025 draft picks: 1st, 2nd, 2nd (TOR), 4th, 4th (DAL), 5th, 7th

What went right? All three trades: Borgen for Kakko and picks, Bjorkstrand and Gourde for 2026 and 2027 first-rounders, Tanev for 2027 second-rounder. Kakko had 43 points, a career high.

What went wrong? Inconsistent goal prevention. Defensive metrics declined. Assistant coach Leach`s departure impacted defense. Bottom 10 in shots, scoring chances, and high-danger chances allowed. Grubauer`s underperformance, Daccord was more consistent.

Keys to the offseason: Coach Bylsma`s staff improved offense. Finding a defensive equivalent for 2025-26 is key for consistency, which has eluded the franchise. Playoffs missed in three of four seasons.

Realistic expectations for 2025-26: Wild-card contention is minimum expectation. Front office faces questions if playoffs are missed again next year.

April 14: Utah Hockey Club

Projected cap space: $21.53 million

2025 draft picks: 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th

What went right? Significant progress. Sergachev trade set stage for strides. 84 points with games left, after Coyotes` one 80-point season since 2014-15. Playoff contention until late season was progress.

What went wrong? Overtime and shootouts. Many OT losses. Improving in these close games will change results.

Keys to the offseason: No cap constraints. $22 million invested in defense last offseason. $21 million+ available this summer. Improving 21st-ranked offense and 15th-ranked power play is priority.

Realistic expectations for 2025-26: Making the playoffs. Core has grown. Progress shown year-over-year. Roster mostly under contract. Cap space to add playoff-caliber players for second Salt Lake season.

April 14: Vancouver Canucks

Projected cap space: $15.08 million

2025 draft picks: 1st, 2nd, 3rd (SJ), 4th (OTT), 5th, 6th, 7th

What went right? Despite inconsistencies, injuries, and Miller-Pettersson friction, wild-card contention until late season. Strong individual seasons from Hughes and Suter (20 goals, 40+ points). But performances only went so far after division win and near conference finals appearance previous year.

What went wrong? Inconsistencies, injuries, Miller-Pettersson friction. Top 5 in fewest shots and scoring chances allowed, yet 19th in goals allowed. Scoring depth crucial after Miller trade. Replacing 80+ point forward difficult.

Keys to the offseason: Coach Tocchet`s future. One-year option or longer-term deal? Potential departure, fourth coach since 2020? Brock Boeser`s future. UFA, six-time 20-goal scorer, significant payday expected. Long-term deal?

Realistic expectations for 2025-26: Situation clearer after free agency. Roster mostly under contract. UFAs Boeser and Suter, and Tocchet`s uncertainty create questions. Addressing concerns could lead to postseason return, within grasp.