As we enter another week of the NHL season, it’s still too early for significant judgments, but early indicators of team performance are starting to emerge. Currently, one team remains unbeaten while two others have yet to secure a win, suggesting that the 2024-25 season still has a long way to go. Here’s a quick overview of what all 32 teams have demonstrated thus far.
Hunter Crowther and I continue our collaboration through this week’s power rankings. My approach involves aggregating six statistics (points percentage, 5-on-5 goal differential, 5-on-5 expected goals for/60, 5-on-5 expected goals against/60, power play expected goals for/60, and shorthanded expected goals against/60, all from Natural Stat Trick) to help produce a list that minimizes personal biases. Additionally, I apply a guideline that prevents any team ranked lower from surpassing those ahead of them by more than five points in the standings. Meanwhile, Hunter relies on his insights and instinct, resulting in a list that merges our perspectives effectively.
It’s worth noting that one downside to using statistics at this early stage is the tendency to overanalyze game outcomes. A handful of strong or weak performances can skew perceptions, so it’s crucial not to overreact to rankings. My focus on underlying metrics combined with Hunter’s emphasis on past expectations and recent results helps to create a balanced power ranking.
1. New York Rangers
Record: 4-0-1, +14
Last Week: 2nd (+1)
Hunter’s Rank: 3rd
Scott’s Rank: 6th
Hunter: The Rangers had a fierce battle against the Maple Leafs on Saturday, with Igor Shesterkin shining as he made 34 saves. This capped a flawless 3-0-0 week for the team, which is operating effectively, with both Artemi Panarin and Chris Kreider scoring at least five goals in five games.
Scott: This might be an unpopular opinion, but if Shesterkin’s contract lands in the $11-12 million annual average range, it could be an overpayment. While he’s undeniably valuable, most goaltenders are settling into the $8 million tier, which suggests a missed opportunity for a better deal. It’s reminiscent of the Mitch Marner contract situation from several years back.
Hunter: That makes sense, but I think goaltenders have been undervalued for so long that it’s fine to see someone land a deal that raises eyebrows.
Scott: Definitely, but it could create complications for the Rangers if they end up being the outlier in this trend.
2. Tampa Bay Lightning
Record: 3-1-0, +6
Last Week: 11th (+9)
Hunter’s Rank: 6th
Scott’s Rank: 4th
Scott: The Lightning have been somewhat overlooked compared to other elite teams, mainly because they’ve only played four games, which has impacted their total points. However, Nikita Kucherov is off to a hot start, netting seven goals in just four games.
3. New Jersey Devils
Record: 5-2-1, +7
Last Week: 3rd (0)
Hunter’s Rank: 5th
Scott’s Rank: 5th
Hunter: Though the Devils suffered two losses last week, their third-period effort against the Capitals stands out. After trailing 5-3, they rallied to earn a point, demonstrating resilience even in a less-than-ideal performance.
4. Dallas Stars
Record: 5-1-0, +9
Last Week: 5th (+1)
Hunter’s Rank: 1st
Scott’s Rank: 11th
Hunter: Kudos to Jake Oettinger for securing the same contract as Jeremy Swayman despite having achieved more playoff success. He played exceptionally well in a recent match against the Oilers, showing why he deserves the deal. Right now, the Stars are a team without weaknesses.
Scott: I’m still slightly skeptical about the Stars, having been outchanced in four of their six games. Although this wouldn’t be concerning later in the season, it draws extra scrutiny now.
5. Los Angeles Kings
Record: 3-1-2, +2
Last Week: 15th (+10)
Hunter’s Rank: 9th
Scott’s Rank: 3rd
Scott: The Kings have had solid control over play early in the season, even if their results haven’t fully reflected it yet. While their goaltenders haven’t been stellar, the team’s defensive play has been commendable.
Hunter: I’ve praised Anze Kopitar for his performances, and I’ve also liked Kevin Fiala and Alex Laferriere’s contributions. Byfield has been quiet recently, though he has potential. The loss of Darcy Kuemper temporarily is a setback, but they’re managing. Adrian Kempe needs to step up as a primary offensive asset.
6. Florida Panthers
Record: 4-2-1, -1
Last Week: 7th (+1)
Hunter’s Rank: 4th
Scott’s Rank: 8th
Scott: After a sluggish start, the Panthers appear to have recovered, securing points in four straight games against some tough opponents. Their underlying stats may not be as impressive as usual, but they should regain their form soon.
7. Winnipeg Jets
Record: 5-0-0, +16
Last Week: 6th (-1)
Hunter’s Rank: 2nd
Scott’s Rank: 13th
Hunter: The Jets have shown impressive versatility, winning in various styles, including blowouts and tight contests. Despite Scott’s claims that they often start strong, this team seems to have found a rhythm.
Scott: Maybe I’m being too critical of the only undefeated team, but I’m not completely convinced yet. Their underlying stats haven’t been strong, which could either improve or lead to a drop in performance.
8. Calgary Flames
Record: 4-0-1, +8
Last Week: 8th (0)
Hunter’s Rank: 13th
Scott’s Rank: 2nd
Hunter: The Flames have performed well, securing wins against strong contenders, and even in their overtime loss to the Kraken, they appeared solid. There might be untapped potential in their key players.
Scott: In contrast to teams like the Stars and Jets, the Flames have strong underlying numbers, though I’m unsure how sustainable this will be. For now, I’m optimistic based on their current performances.
9. Washington Capitals
Record: 3-1-0, +2
Last Week: 32nd (+23)
Hunter’s Rank: 18th
Scott’s Rank: 1st
Scott: I rarely adjust a team’s ranking this drastically, but given the Capitals’ improved performance, it’s warranted. Just a single game initially offered little to evaluate, but their latest wins have presented tangible metrics. They excel in several key statistics, making me more intrigued about their potential.
Hunter: While the buzz around Alex Ovechkin’s goals is notable, I’m eager to see Andrew Mangiapane return to form. His potential for secondary scoring in Washington is promising. Tom Wilson appears to be bouncing back as well, which is encouraging.
10. Toronto Maple Leafs
Record: 3-2-0, +4
Last Week: 4th (-6)
Hunter’s Rank: 8th
Scott’s Rank: 12th
Scott: The Leafs dropped a few spots in my ranking, but I still believe in their capabilities. They’ve been effective in generating chances despite one disappointing game. Their defense has finally showed cohesion, contributing to their overall game.
Hunter: I genuinely hope Timothy Liljegren finds success with the team. While he may not have standout qualities, he’s performed adequately, and given more regular playing time, he could prove valuable.
Scott: The Leafs are waiting on Jani Hakanpaa’s return before making trade decisions, which seems wise considering their current defensive struggles.
11. Carolina Hurricanes
Record: 2-2-0, +1
Last Week: 12th (+1)
Hunter’s Rank: 11th
Scott’s Rank: 14th
Hunter: Surprising as it may be, Shayne Gostisbehere leads the team in goals. The Hurricanes will eventually kickstart their offense, as shown in their strong display against the Penguins.
12. Boston Bruins
Record: 3-2-1, +1
Last Week: 18th (+6)
Hunter’s Rank: 10th
Scott’s Rank: 16th
Hunter: While they struggled against the Panthers, their win against the Avalanche was impressive. However, they faced challenges against the Kraken and appeared to be on the backfoot much of the night against Utah.
13. Minnesota Wild
Record: 3-0-2, +4
Last Week: 17th (+4)
Hunter’s Rank: 20th
Scott’s Rank: 7th
Scott: Surprisingly, the Wild remain one of the few teams without a regulation loss. They have been fortunate to gather points despite minimal offensive output, largely thanks to their strong defense.
14. Edmonton Oilers
Record: 2-4-0, -12
Last Week: 14th (0)
Hunter’s Rank: 12th
Scott’s Rank: 15th
Scott: After a rocky start, the Oilers have settled down with two wins last week, alleviating some early concerns. While they’re not performing at the championship level expected, the current situation feels less dire than it did before.
15. Vegas Golden Knights
Record: 3-2-1, +3
Last Week: 1st (-14)
Hunter’s Rank: 7th
Scott’s Rank: 24th
