NHL Power Rankings: Top Stories for All 32 Teams Post-Olympic Break

The return of NHL hockey has brought renewed excitement as all 32 teams resume play after a nearly three-week hiatus due to the Olympics. The league’s action resumed with a heavy 12-game slate, marking a significant point in the season as the trade deadline approaches. Here’s a rundown of the current state of each team in the NHL post-Olympic break.

NHL Power Rankings: Team Updates

1. Tampa Bay Lightning (38-14-4)

While experiencing the loss of coach Jon Cooper’s father, the Lightning continue to shine. They have won 20 of their last 22 matches. Brayden Point has returned from injury and made a significant impact, scoring twice against Toronto. Meanwhile, Nikita Kucherov continues to impress, boasting 17 points in his last six games.

2. Colorado Avalanche (38-9-9)

The Avalanche have made a notable acquisition, bringing in Brett Kulak from Pittsburgh in exchange for Samuel Girard. They come back strong, winning both games around the break but face challenges with an 8-7-2 record this season.

3. Dallas Stars (35-14-9)

The Stars face a setback with Mikko Rantanen’s recent injury, expected to sideline him for at least two weeks. This is a blow to their aspirations for the Presidents’ Trophy.

4. Carolina Hurricanes (36-15-6)

The Hurricanes have secured breakout goalie Brandon Bussi with a three-year contract. Their ample cap space positions them well for potential trades leading up to the deadline.

5. Minnesota Wild (34-14-10)

With ambitious plans, GM Bill Guerin is making waves, potentially trading for Quinn Hughes while also celebrating a gold victory with Team USA.

6. Montreal Canadiens (32-17-8)

The Canadiens are beginning to recover from injuries. Key players like Kirby Dach and Alex Newhook are back, fueling their playoff ambitions.

7. Buffalo Sabres (33-19-6)

Buffalo’s focus lies on negotiating a new contract for pending unrestricted free agent Alex Tuch. The team aims for its first playoff appearance since 2011.

8. Columbus Blue Jackets (29-20-7)

Under new head coach Rick Bowness, the Blue Jackets are in a dynamic form, winning seven straight games and 11 of their last 12, making a strong return to the playoff race.

9. Boston Bruins (32-20-5)

The Bruins, who are currently in a playoff spot, could be in the market to add talent after a surprising shift from selling at last year’s deadline.

10. Vegas Golden Knights (28-16-14)

Vegas has a clear opportunity to ascend the Pacific standings, though they remained quiet at last year’s trade deadline. Fans are wondering if this trend will continue.

11. Detroit Red Wings (33-19-6)

The Red Wings returned from their break hoping to build upon a playoff spot, but they have just three wins in the last dozen games.

12. New York Islanders (32-21-5)

Rookie Matthew Schaefer’s performances continue to shine as the Islanders seek home-ice advantage in the playoffs. Ilya Sorokin’s goalkeeping adds significant strength to the team.

13. Pittsburgh Penguins (29-15-12)

A recent injury to Sidney Crosby casts uncertainty over the Penguins’ ability to maintain their playoff standing while he recovers.

14. Anaheim Ducks (31-23-3)

Leo Carlsson’s return against Edmonton and his strong performance could be crucial for the Ducks as they aim for their first playoff appearance since 2018.

15. Washington Capitals (30-23-7)

Washington has started to find its form again, winning consecutive games. Their playoff prospects depend heavily on maintaining this momentum.

16. Ottawa Senators (28-22-7)

Ottawa is performing well, with improved goaltending leading to significant wins before the break. They aim to continue this trend as the playoffs approach.

17. Utah Mammoth (30-24-4)

A noteworthy return for Logan Cooley in Utah could influence their playoff chances as they prepare for crucial decisions at the trade deadline.

18. Seattle Kraken (27-21-9)

Seattle finds itself in a competitive wildcard spot in the West. The upcoming deadline could provide key opportunities for roster changes.

19. Edmonton Oilers (28-23-8)

Edmonton struggles continued with a recent loss to Anaheim. Goaltending changes might be on the horizon to address their inconsistencies.

20. Toronto Maple Leafs (27-22-9)

After a considerable defeat to Tampa, the Leafs may be forced to reconsider their strategy, with potential changes looming ahead of the trade deadline.

21. Los Angeles Kings (23-20-14)

Artemi Panarin’s Kings debut was notable, despite the loss to Vegas. Further moves may be expected as they seek additional offensive power.

22. San Jose Sharks (27-24-4)

Kiefer Sherwood’s recent recruitment may support a playoff push for the Sharks as the deadline approaches.

23. Nashville Predators (26-24-7)

The Predators seem cautious about significant roster changes, choosing to maintain a steady approach as they stay in playoff contention.

24. Winnipeg Jets (23-26-8)

Despite doubts, Winnipeg believes they can still reach the playoffs. Their performance in the upcoming games will be telling.

25. Chicago Blackhawks (22-26-9)

While not actively pursuing a playoff spot, Chicago is open to trades that could enhance their roster for the future.

26. Philadelphia Flyers (25-21-11)

The Flyers have struggled recently, prompting discussions around defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen as the trade deadline approaches.

27. New Jersey Devils (28-28-2)

A disappointing season for New Jersey has raised concerns, with potential shifts in personnel expected after recent losses.

28. Calgary Flames (23-27-6)

With players likely leaving, Calgary is undergoing a transition as they gear up for the remainder of the season.

29. St. Louis Blues (20-28-9)

The Blues may explore significant trades as GM Doug Armstrong looks to reshape the roster ahead of the deadline.

30. New York Rangers (22-29-6)

Following their recent trade of Artemi Panarin, the Rangers are poised for more moves, possibly revolving around Olympic gold medalist Vincent Trocheck.

31. Vancouver Canucks (18-33-7)

Recent trade discussions in Vancouver hint at changes, with Tyler Myers suddenly becoming a focal point for potential deals.

Conclusion

The NHL landscape is evolving rapidly. With the trade deadline approaching, teams are poised to make strategic moves aimed at bolstering their rosters for playoff contention. As the action unfolds, fans can anticipate thrilling developments across the league.