2023-24 NHL Betting Predictions
Projected Order of Finish (Conference/Stanley Cup odds in parenthesis)
EASTERN CONFERENCE
METROPOLITAN DIVISION ODDS
Carolina Hurricanes (450/800)
New Jersey Devils (550/900)
New York Rangers (850/1600)
Pittsburgh Penguins (1400/2800)
New York Islanders (2500/5000)
Washington Capitals (3000/8000)
Columbus Blue Jackets (7500/15,000)
Philadelphia Flyers (7500/15,000)
Key Additions/Subtractions for each team:
Carolina Hurricanes
Additions: Anthony DeAngelo-D (Phi), Caleb Jones-D (Chi), David Kase-F (Phi), Brendan Lemieux-F (Phi), Dmitry Orlov-D (Bos), Yaniv Perets-G
Subtractions: Dominik Bokk-F, Calvin de Haan-D (TB), Jack Dugan-F, Ryan Dzingel-F, Cavan Fitzgerald-D, Jake Gardiner-D, Shayne Gostisbehere-D (Det), Ondrej Kase-F, William Lagesson-D (Tor), Max Lajoie-D (Tor), Mackenzie MacEachern-F (StL), Stelio Mattheos-F, Max Pacioretty-F (Wsh), Jesse Puljujarvi-F, Zach Sawchenko-G (Van), Paul Stastny-F,
Derek Stepan-F, Malte Stromwall-F
The Hurricanes have the roster to win the division again. They also have the defense to be a dangerous team to eliminate in the playoffs. They reached the Eastern Conference Finals last year and they are built to get there and beyond again this season.
NJ Devils
Additions: Shane Bowers-F (Bos), Kyle Criscuolo-F (SJ), Justin Dowling-F (Van), Cal Foote-D (Nsh), Erik Kallgren-G (Tor), Colin Miller-D (Dal), Tomas Nosek-F (Bos), Chris Tierney-F (Mtl), Tyler Toffoli-F (Cgy)
Subtractions: Jonathan Bernier-G, Mackenzie Blackwood-G (SJ), Jesper Boqvist-F (Bos), Zachary Emond-G, Joe Gambardella-F, Mason Geertsen-D (VGK), Ryan Graves-D (Pit), Jeremy Groleau-D, Jayce Hawryluk-F, Zack Hayes-D, Timur Ibragimov-F, Brian Pinho-F (NYI), Robbie Russo-D, Yegor Sharangovich-F (Cgy), Aarne Talvitie-F, Tomas Tatar-F, Reilly
Walsh-D (Bos), Miles Wood-F (Col)
The Devils won over 50 games last season before falling in the second round of the playoffs to Carolina. The Devils have the offensive firepower to compete for the Cup. If their goaltending can hold up, or if they can make a move to get better in net, they have a chance to win the East.
New York Rangers
Additions: Alex Belzile-F (Mtl), Nick Bonino-F (Mtl), Erik Gustafsson-D (Tor), Mac Hollowell-D (Tor), Connor Mackey-D (Ari), Tyler Pitlick-F (StL), Jonathan Quick-G (VGK), Blake Wheeler-F (Wpg)
Subtractions: Ryan Carpenter-F (SJ), Tim Gettinger-F (Det), Libor Hajek-D, Jaroslav Halak-G, Wyatt Kalynuk-D (StL), Patrick Kane-F, Patrick Khodorenko-F, Will Lockwood-F (Fla), Niko Mikkola-D (Fla), Tyler Motte-F, C.J. Smith-F, Vladimir Tarasenko-F (Ott), Cooper Zech-D
The Rangers are led by their offense and by goalie Igor Shesterkin. Despite a mediocre defense that was more offensive than defensive in front of him, Shesterkin finished third for the Vezina. The Rangers will be fine during the regular season with their scoring prowess but they’ll need to add some defensive-minded defensemen for a deep playoff run this year.
Pittsburgh Penguins
Additions: Noel Acciari-F (Tor), Will Butcher-D (Dal), Lars Eller-F (Col), Ryan Graves-D (NJ), Dillon Hamaliuk-F (SJ), Magnus Hellberg-G (Det), Vince Hinostroza-F (Buf), Andreas Johnsson-F (SJ), Erik Karlsson-D (SJ), Joona Koppanen-F (Bos), Alex Nedeljkovic-G (Det), Matt Nieto-F (Col), Rem Pitlick-F (Mtl), Ryan Shea-D (Dal), Reilly Smith-F (VGK), Radim
Zohorna-F (Tor)
Subtractions: Josh Archibald-F (TB), Drake Caggiula-F (Edm), Casey DeSmith-G (Mtl), Peter Diliberatore-D, Brian Dumoulin-D (Sea), Mikael Granlund-F (SJ), Danton Heinen-F, Dmitri Kulikov-D (Fla), Nathan Legare-F (Mtl), Josh Maniscalco-D, Jeff Petry-D (Det), Ryan Poehling-F (Phi), Jan Rutta-D (SJ), Colin Swoyer-D, Dustin Tokarski-G (Buf), Jason Zucker-F (Ari)
The Penguins are getting older and Sid Crosby is no longer Sid the Kid at 36 years old. The addition of Erik Karlsson from the Sharks gives the Pens another weapon that could be the difference between making and not making the playoffs this season. They are long in the tooth but, if they can sneak into the playoffs, they have some firepower.
New York Islanders
Additions: Aidan Fulp-D, Julien Gauthier-F (Ott), Karson Kuhlman-F (Wpg), Kyle MacLean-F, Travis Mitchell-D, Brian Pinho-F (NJ)
Subtractions: Collin Adams-F, Cole Bardreau-F, Blade Jenkins-F, Jeff Kubiak-F, Richard Panik-F, Zach Parise-F, Cory Schneider-G, Bode Wilde-D, Parker Wotherspoon-D (Bos)
Goalie Ilya Sorokin is the heart and soul of this team and will once again be asked to play at a Vezina Trophy level. He was paid handsomely this offseason as well he should be because few teams lean on their goalie like the Islanders. They averaged less than three goals per game and have a mediocre blue line. They will absolutely need more offensive firepower this year if they hope to return to the playoffs.
Washington Capitals
Additions: Ethen Frank-F, Hardy Haman Aktell-D, Alex Limoges-F (Wpg), Max Pacioretty-F (Car), Matthew Phillips-F (Cgy), Chase Priskie-D (Ana)
Subtractions: Connor Brown-F (Edm), Gabriel Carlsson-D, Kody Clark-F, Zachary Fucale-G, Carl Hagelin-F, Matt Irwin-D (Van), Bobby Nardella-D, Garrett Pilon-F (Ott), Conor Sheary-F (TB), Craig Smith-F (Dal), Mike Vecchione-F
The window is likely closing on a Caps team that finished out of the playoffs last season for the first time in seven seasons. Alex Ovechkin is now 38 and much of the team’s core is over 30 years of age. If they can stay injury-free, the Caps have a shot to sneak in the playoffs but the Stanley Cup is just a dream for this team at this point.
Columbus Blue Jackets
Additions: Cameron Butler-F, Hunter McKown-F, Ivan Provorov-D (Phi)
Subtractions: Jon Gillies-G, Michael Hutchinson-G, Joona Luoto-F, Lane Pederson-F (Edm), Justin Richards-F (Buf)
Johnny Gaudreau’s first season in Columbus was a mixed bag. He led the team in points with 75 but fell 40 points short of his career-high the season before. He doesn’t have much around him, with the league’s 30th-ranked goals-per-game average. Defenseman Zach Werenski will be back after missing nearly all of last season due to injury. The Blue Jackets' addition of Provorov along with Damon Severson at the end of last year should improve a porous blue line. They have an outside shot at a playoff spot if Gaudreau increases his point output and the new defense cuts down the team’s goals against in five-on-five situations.
Philadelphia Flyers
Additions: Rhett Gardner-F (Dal), Garnet Hathaway-F (Bos), Victor Mete-D (Tor), Cal Petersen-G (LA), Ryan Poehling-F (Pit), Marc Staal-D (Fla), Sean Walker-D (LA), Will Zmolek-D
Subtractions: Evan Barratt-F, Kieffer Bellows-F, Justin Braun-D, Jackson Cates-F, Kevin Connauton-D (LA), Anthony DeAngelo-D (Car), Helge Grans-D (Phi), Troy Grosenick-G (Nsh), Kevin Hayes-F (StL), Hayden Hodgson-F (LA), David Kase-F (Car), Brendan Lemieux-F (Car), Cal Petersen-G (Phi), Ivan Provorov-D (CBJ), James van Riemsdyk-F (Bos), Sean Walker-D (Phi), Max Willman-F, Wyatte Wylie-D
The Flyers have been anything but the Broad Street Bullies in recent years. The Flyers will miss the playoffs again this season. They are trying to stockpile picks and build for a few years down the road. Expect another rough road in Philly while management hopes for more growth from the team’s prospects.
ATLANTIC DIVISION ODDS
Toronto Maple Leafs (550/900)
Boston Bruins (850/1600)
Florida Panthers (850/1600)
Tampa Bay Lightning (950/2000)
Buffalo Sabres (1700/3500)
Ottawa Senators (2000/4000)
Detroit Red Wings (3000/7500)
Montreal Canadiens (13,000/25,000)
Key Additions/Subtractions for each team:
Toronto Maple Leafs
Additions: Simon Benoit-D (Ana), Tyler Bertuzzi-F (Bos), Max Domi-F (Dal), Dylan Gambrell-F (Ott), Martin Jones-G (Sea), John Klingberg-D (Min), William Lagesson-D (Car), Max Lajoie-D (Car), Ryan Reaves-F (Min)
Subtractions: Noel Acciari-F (Pit), Zach Aston-Reese-F, Jordie Benn-D, Carl Dahlstrom-D, Erik Gustafsson-D (NYR), Justin Holl-D (Det), Mac Hollowell-D (NYR), Erik Kallgren-G (NJ), Alex Kerfoot-F (Ari), Filip Kral-D, Victor Mete-D (Phi), Ryan O’Reilly-F (Nsh), Luke Schenn-D (Nsh), Wayne Simmonds-F, Radim Zohorna-F (Pit)
The Leafs are built to win now. They added toughness to a roster that had 111 points last season. Their postseason failures loom over this franchise like an anchor. The time is now for arguably the NHL’s most talented team.
Boston Bruins
Additions: Jesper Boqvist-F (NJ), Patrick Brown-F (Ott), John Farinacci-F (Ari), Morgan Geekie-F (Sea), Milan Lucic-F (Cgy), Jayson Megna-F (Ana), Ian Mitchell-D (Chi), Alec Regula-D (Chi), Anthony Richard-F (Mtl), Kevin Shattenkirk-D (Ana), James van Riemsdyk-F (Phi), Reilly Walsh-D (NJ), Parker Wotherspoon-D (NYI)
Subtractions: Jack Ahcan-D (Col), Samuel Asselin-F, Patrice Bergeron-F, Tyler Bertuzzi-F (Tor), Shane Bowers-F (NJ), Connor Carrick-D (Sea), Connor Clifton-D (Buf), Matt Filipe-F , Nick Foligno-F (Chi), Taylor Hall-F (Chi), Garnet Hathaway-F (Phi), Joona Koppanen-F (Pit), David Krejci-F, Vinni Lettieri-F (Min), Brady Lyle-D (Cgy), Tomas Nosek-F (NJ), Dmitry Orlov-D (Car), Mike Reilly-D (Fla), Anton Stralman-D, Chris Wagner-F (Col), Kai Wissmann-D, Nick Wolff-D
The Bruins shocked the league by getting off to a scintillating start last year and they never let up on their way to the best regular season record in league history. The playoffs were another story, however, as the B’s bowed out in round one. They will have to try and win this season without their top two centers from last year as captain Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci both retired. Don’t expect a record-setting season but the Bruins have the goalies and defense to be a playoff team.
Florida Panthers
Additions: Rasmus Asplund-F (Nsh), Uvis Balinskis-D, Oliver Ekman-Larsson-D (Van), Dmitri Kulikov-D (Pit), Will Lockwood-F (NYR), Steven Lorentz-F (SJ), Ryan McAllister-F, Niko Mikkola-D (NYR), Mike Reilly-D (Bos), Evan Rodrigues-F (Col), Kevin Stenlund-F (Wpg), Anthony Stolarz-G (Ana), Alexander True-F (Sea)
Subtractions: Jean-Francois Berube-G, Anthony Bitetto-D, Henry Bowlby-F, Connor Bunnaman-F, Anthony Duclair-F (SJ), Evan Fitzpatrick-G, Max Gildon-D, Patric Hornqvist-F, Alex Lyon-G (Det), Serron Noel-F, Givani Smith-F (SJ), Eric Staal-F, Marc Staal-D (Phi), Colin White-F
One year after getting taken out in the second round after winning the President’s Trophy, the Panthers returned the favor by upsetting 2022-23 President’s Trophy winner Boston in the opening round. The Panthers rolled all the way to the Finals before falling to Vegas. The Panthers strengthened their blue line in the offseason and are led by MVP candidate Matthew Tkachuk. If the goaltending, led by Sergei Bobrovsky, the Panthers will once again be a tough out in the playoffs.
Tampa Bay Lightning
Additions: Josh Archibald-F (Pit), Logan Brown-F (StL), Mitchell Chaffee-F (Min), Calvin de Haan-D (Car), Luke Glendening-F (Dal), Jonas Johansson-G (Col), Conor Sheary-F (Wsh)
Subtractions: Rudolfs Balcers-F, Pierre-Edouard Bellemare-F (Sea), Maxim Cajkovic-F (Min), Trevor Carrick-D (Ana), Ian Cole-D (Van), Ross Colton-F (Col), Brian Elliott-G, Alex Killorn-F (Ana), Pierre-Cedric Labrie-F, Maxime Lagace-G, Patrick Maroon-F (Min), Ryan McDonagh-D (Nsh), Grant Mismash-F, Corey Perry-F (Chi)Dmitri Semykin-D, Gemel Smith-F, Daniel Walcott-F
After winning two straight Cups and reaching the Stanley Cup Finals in three straight seasons, the Lightning were ousted in the first round by Toronto last year. The roster has taken hits for three straight seasons and, while this looks like a playoff team, the Lightning won’t get to another Cup with this older roster.
Buffalo Sabres
Additions: Connor Clifton-D (Bos), Devin Cooley-G (Nsh), Erik Johnson-D (Col), Justin Richards-F (CBJ), Dustin Tokarski-G (Pit)
Subtractions: Craig Anderson-G, Vince Hinostroza-F (Pit), Ilya Lyubushkin-D (Ana), Sean Malone-F, Matej Pekar-F, Lawrence Pilut-D, Austin Strand-D, Malcolm Subban-G (StL)
Can the Sabres end a 12-year playoff-less drought this season? They can if top-prospect Devon Lev delivers in net and Tage Thompson continues his rise as a top-scoring forward. With Boston and Tampa possibly dropping down a bit this season, the Sabres have a chance to sneak in the playoffs.
Ottawa Senators
Additions: Matthew Highmore-F (StL), Bokondji Imama-F (Ari), Joonas Korpisalo-G (LA), Dominik Kubalik-F (Det), Zack Macewen-F (LA), Nikolas Matinpalo-D, Garrett Pilon-F (Wsh), Donovan Sebrango-D (Det), Jiri Smejkal-F, Vladimir Tarasenko-F (NYR)
Subtractions: Jonathan Aspirot-D, Antoine Bibeau-G, Derick Brassard-F, Patrick Brown-F (Bos), Alex DeBrincat-F (Det), Dylan Ferguson-G, Dylan Gambrell-F (Tor), Julien Gauthier-F (NYI), Nick Holden-D, Viktor Lodin-F, Jake Lucchini-F (Min), Scott Sabourin-F (SJ), Cam Talbot-G (LA), Austin Watson-F
The Senators improved their goaltending by signing goalie Joonas Korpisalo away from the Kings. They still need to show vast improvement from an offense that averaged less than three goals per game last season. The return of Joshua Norris from injury will help but the Senators will have to outduel several teams just to squeak in the playoffs. A seventh straight season on the outside of the playoff picture may be more realistic.
Detroit Red Wings
Additions: J.T. Compher-F (Col), Alex DeBrincat-F (Ott), Alexandre Doucet-F, Christian Fischer-F (Ari), Tim Gettinger-F (NYR), Shayne Gostisbehere-D (Car), Justin Holl-D (Tor), Klim Kostin-F (Edm), Alex Lyon-G (Fla), Jeff Petry-D (Pit), Brogan Rafferty-D (Sea), James Reimer-G (SJ), Daniel Sprong-F (Sea)
Subtractions: Pontus Andreasson-F, Seth Barton-D, Victor Brattstrom-G, Alex Chiasson-F, Adam Erne-F, Robert Hagg-D (Ana),- Magnus Hellberg-G (Pit), Dominik Kubalik-F (Ott), Dylan McLaughlin-F, Alex Nedeljkovic-G (Pit), Jordan Oesterle-D (Cgy), Danny O’Regan-F, Chase Pearson-F, Mark Pysyk-D, Donovan Sebrango-D (Ott), Pius Suter-F (Van), Jasper Weatherby-F (Nsh), Filip Zadina-F (SJ)
Hockeytown hopes to end their playoff drought this season and they have a decent shot. The Red Wings added some offensive firepower by picking up Alex DeBrincat and J.T. Compher. The Red Wings have decent goaltending and one of the stronger defenses in the East. A solid offense gives them hope of a playoff spot.
Montreal Canadians
Additions: Lias Andersson-F (LA), Casey DeSmith-G (Pit), Brady Keeper-D (Van), Nathan Legare-F (Pit), Alex Newhook-F (Col)
Subtractions: Frederic Allard-D, Alex Belzile-F (NYR), Nick Bonino-F (NYR), Madison Bowey-D, Paul Byron-F, Jonathan Drouin-F (Col), Gianni Fairbrother-D (Col), Denis Gurianov-F (Nsh), Mike Hoffman-F (SJ), Otto Leskinen-D, Rem Pitlick-F (Pit), Anthony Richard-F (Bos), Corey Schueneman-D (Col), Tony Sund-D, Joel Teasdale-F, Chris Tierney-F (NJ)
The Canadians' long rebuild continues this season. They are young, particularly at forward, and will likely miss the playoffs again this season. However, if this team stays the course, they’ll have a strong core group ready to compete in 1-2 years.
WESTERN CONFERENCE
CENTRAL DIVISION ODDS
Colorado Avalanche (500/1000)
Dallas Stars (700/1400)
Minnesota Wild (1500/3000)
Winnipeg Jets (2000/5000)
Nashville Predators (3500/7500)
St. Louis Blues (4000/8000)
Arizona Coyotes (6000/13,000)
Chicago Blackhawks (10,000/20,000)
Key Additions/Subtractions for each team:
Colorado Avalanche
Additions: Jack Ahcan-D (Bos), Ross Colton-F (TB), Jonathan Drouin-F (Mtl), Gianni Fairbrother-D (Mtl), Arvid Holm-G (Wpg), Ryan Johansen-F (Nsh), Sam Malinski-D, Fredrik Olofsson-F (Dal), Ondrej Pavel-F, Jason Polin-F, Corey Schueneman-D (Mtl), Riley Tufte-F (Dal), Chris Wagner-F (Bos), Miles Wood-F (NJ)
Subtractions: J.T. Compher-F (Det), Lars Eller-F (Pit), Darren Helm-F, Charles Hudon-F, Joshua Jacobs-D (StL), Jonas Johansson-G (TB), Erik Johnson-D (Buf), Keith Kinkaid-G, Denis Malgin-F, Mikhail Maltsev-F (LA), Ryan Merkley-D, Alex Newhook-F (Mtl), Matt Nieto-F (Pit), Evan Rodrigues-F (Fla), Gustav Rydahl-F
Captain Gabriel Landeskog will miss a second straight season after undergoing major knee surgery. The Avalanche still are strong in net and were able to win the Central Division last year while battling through injuries. The Avs added Ryan Johansen and Jonathan Drouin this offseason to strengthen the two top lines. If the Avs can stay healthy this season, they have a chance to get back to the Stanley Cup Finals.
Dallas Stars
Additions: Matt Duchene-F (Nsh), Kyle McDonald-F, Derrick Pouliot-D (SJ), Craig Smith-F (Wsh), Sam Steel-F (Min), Chase Wheatcroft-F
Subtractions: Riley Barber-F, Dawson Barteaux-D, Will Butcher-D (Pit), Max Domi-F (Tor), Rhett Gardner-F (Phi), Ben Gleason-D (Edm), Luke Glendening-F (TB), Tanner Kero-F, Joel Kiviranta-F, Oskari Laaksonen-D, Colin Miller-D (NJ), Fredrik Olofsson-F (Col), Adam Scheel-G, Ryan Shea-D (Pit), Marian Studenic-F (Sea), Riley Tufte-F (Col), Dylan Wells-G
The Stars added potential 30-goal scorer Matt Duchene in the offseason to give the team even more offensive depth. After reaching the Western Conference finals last year, it may be now or never for a Stars team that is getting old at many key spots.
Minnesota Wild
Additions: Maxim Cajkovic-F (TB), Vinni Lettieri-F (Bos), Jake Lucchini-F (Ott), Patrick Maroon-F (TB)
Subtractions: Brandon Baddock-F, Mitchell Chaffee-F (TB), Mathew Dumba-D (Ari), Damien Giroux-F, Joe Hicketts-D (LA), John Klingberg-D (Tor), Gustav Nyquist-F (Nsh), Ryan Reaves-F (Tor), Mason Shaw-F, Sam Steel-F (Dal), Oskar Sundqvist-F (StL)
It will likely be the status quo for the Wild this season as the team continues to be strapped by salary cap restrictions. That might not be such a bad thing for a team that had 99 points last season and made the playoffs. The team’s young forwards will only get better and they should be playoff-bound once again this season.
Winnipeg Jets
Additions: Laurent Brossoit-G (VGK), Collin Delia-G (Van), Parker Ford-F, Alex Iafallo-F (Wpg), Artemi Knyazev-D (SJ), Rasmus Kupari-F (Wpg), Jeffrey Viel-F (SJ), Gabriel Vilardi-F (Wpg)
Subtractions: Mikhail Berdin-G, Evan Cormier-G, Pierre-Luc Dubois-F (LA), Sam Gagner-F, Leon Gawanke-D (SJ), Arvid Holm-G (Col), Alex Iafallo-F (Wpg), Karson Kuhlman-F (NYI), Alex Limoges-F (Wsh), Saku Maenalanen-F, David Rittich-G (LA), Kevin Stenlund-F (Fla), Blake Wheeler-F (NYR)
The Jets were bounced in the first round by Vegas after earning a Wildcard berth in the Western Conference playoffs. They were led by a stellar season from goalie Connor Hellebuyck. They will need him to be strong again after the team parted ways with two of their top six scorers in the offseason. The Jets were just 21st in goals per game last season and could be a candidate to fall out of the playoffs this year if Hellebuyck struggles at all to match last season’s output.
Nashville Predators
Additions: Troy Grosenick-G (Phi), Denis Gurianov-F (Mtl), Jake Livingstone-D, Ryan McDonagh-D (TB), Gustav Nyquist-F (Min), Ryan O’Reilly-F (Tor), Luke Schenn-D (Tor), Jasper Weatherby-F (Det)
Subtractions: Rasmus Asplund-F (Fla), Mark Borowiecki-D, Devin Cooley-G (Buf), Matt Duchene-F (Dal), Cal Foote-D (NJ), Jimmy Huntington-F, Ryan Johansen-F (Col), John Leonard-F (Ari), Markus Nurmi-F, Isaac Ratcliffe-F, Austin Rueschhoff-F, Zach Sanford-F (Ari), Tomas Vomacka-G
The Predators fell just short of making the playoffs for a 9th straight time last season. Nashville didn’t stand pat in the offseason, adding forwards Ryan O’Reilly and Gustav Nyquist. They shored up the blue line as well by adding Luke Schenn. Juuse Saros is a playoff-ready goalie and gives the Preds an advantage in the net in nearly all matchups. A return to the playoffs is not at all out of the question.
St. Louis Blues
Additions: Kevin Hayes-F (Phi), Andre Heim-F, Joshua Jacobs-D (Col), Wyatt Kalynuk-D (NYR), Mackenzie MacEachern-F (Car), Anton Malmstrom-D, Malcolm Subban-G (Buf), Oskar Sundqvist-F (Min)
Subtractions: Logan Brown-F (TB), Martin Frk-F, Thomas Greiss-G, Matthew Highmore-F (Ott), Josh Leivo-F, Tyler Pitlick-F (NYR), Dmitri Samorukov-D, Steven Santini-D (LA), Nathan Todd-F, Luke Witkowski-F
The Blues missed the playoffs last year and may be on the path to a rebuild this season after standing mostly pat this offseason. Forward Kevin Hayes is a nice addition but doesn’t make up for a dropoff in offensive production overall. The Blues will be looking to get younger and develop talent this year and likely miss the playoffs for the second straight season.
Arizona Coyotes
Additions: Nick Bjugstad-F (Edm), Travis Dermott-D (Van), Mathew Dumba-D (Min), Sean Durzi-D (LA), Alex Kerfoot-F (Tor), Justin Kirkland-F (Ana), Patrik Koch-D, John Leonard-F (Nsh), Zach Sanford-F (Nsh), Troy Stecher-D (Cgy), Matt Villalta-G (LA), Jason Zucker-F (Pit)
Subtractions: Laurent Dauphin-F, Sean Durzi-D (Ari), John Farinacci-F (Bos), Christian Fischer-F (Det), Bokondji Imama-F (Ott), Lukas Klok-D, Andrew Ladd-F, Connor Mackey-D (NYR), Brett Ritchie-F, David Tendeck-G
Arizona bolstered their blueline this offseason by adding Sean Durzi, Troy Stecher and Matt Dumba. This will not likely be enough to get them into the playoffs this season but it is a step in the right direction.
Chicago Blackhawks
Additions: Ryan Donato-F (Sea), Nick Foligno-F (Bos), Taylor Hall-F (Bos), Corey Perry-F (TB)
Subtractions: Anders Bjork-F, Hunter Drew-D, Andreas Englund-D (LA), Jakub Galvas-D, Maxim Golod-F, Cam Hillis-F, Caleb Jones-D (Car), Jujhar Khaira-F, Anton Khudobin-G, Ian Mitchell-D (Bos), Alec Regula-D (Bos), Buddy Robinson-F, Alex Stalock-G (Ana), Jonathan Toews-F, Austin Wagner-F, Andy Welinski-D
This season will be all about #1 draft pick and ‘can’t miss’ superstar Connor Bedard in Chicago. He will be the centerpiece of the team and the league in 10-15 years. He will not, however, be in the playoffs this season. The Blackhawks have added some veterans to support him but they are here just to help his development not for a playoff push.
PACIFIC DIVISION ODDS
Edmonton Oilers (500,1000)
Vegas Golden Knights (600/1200)
LA Kings (1100/2200)
Seattle Kraken (1700/3500)
Vancouver Canucks (2500/6000)
Calgary Flames (1500/3000)
Anaheim Ducks (13,000/25,000)
San Jose Sharks (13,000/25,000)
Key Additions/Subtractions for each team:
Edmonton Oilers
Additions: Carl Berglund-F, Connor Brown-F (Wsh), Drake Caggiula-F (Pit), Ben Gleason-D (Dal), Lane Pederson-F (CBJ)
Subtractions: Justin Bailey-F, Tyler Benson-F, Nick Bjugstad-F (Ari), Jason Demers-D, Oscar Klefbom-D, Slater Koekkoek-D, Klim Kostin-F (Det), Ryan Murray-D, Devin Shore-F, Mike Smith-G, Kailer Yamamoto-F (Sea)
The Oilers come into this season with one expectation: Winning the Stanley Cup. MVP Connor McDavid leads a dynamic offense. To win it all, they need further development from second-year goalie Stuart Skinner. Skinner struggled in the playoffs, leading to a second-round exit by Vegas.
Vegas Golden Knights
Additions: Mason Geertsen-D (NJ), Christoffer Sedoff-D
Subtractions: Teddy Blueger-F (Van), Laurent Brossoit-G (Wpg), Connor Corcoran-D, Spencer Foo-F, Phil Kessel-F, Sakari Manninen-F, Maxim Marushev-F, Nolan Patrick-F, Jonathan Quick-G (NYR)
The Golden Knights return with nearly the same team that won the Stanley Cup title in 2022-23. The team parted ways with Reilly Smith and Phil Kessel but has the pieces to contend once again. It will likely come down to a matchup with the Oilers this season for the right to represent the Western Conference in the Stanley Cup Finals.
Los Angeles Kings
Additions: Kevin Connauton-D (Phi), Pierre-Luc Dubois-F (Wpg), Andreas Englund-D (Chi), Joe Hicketts-D (Min), Hayden Hodgson-F (Phi), Trevor Lewis-F (Cgy), Mikhail Maltsev-F (Col), David Rittich-G (Wpg), Steven Santini-D (StL), Cam Talbot-G (Ott)
Subtractions: Lias Andersson-F (Mtl), Aidan Dudas-F, Alexander Edler-D, David Hrenak-G, Jacob Ingham-G, Joonas Korpisalo-G (Ott), Rasmus Kupari-F (Wpg), Zack Macewen-F (Ott), Tobie Paquette-Bisson-D, Nate Schnarr-F, Gabriel Vilardi-F (Wpg), Matt Villalta-G (Ari)
The Kings added more scoring punch this offseason by adding second-line center Pierre-Luc Dubois. They will remain a viable scoring machine in a high-scoring Western Conference. The key, however, will be new goaltender Cam Talbot. He has a great defense in front of him and a top-five offense. If Talbot delivers, the Kings could make some noise in the Western Conference.
Seattle Kraken
Additions: Pierre-Edouard Bellemare-F (TB), Connor Carrick-D (Bos), Brian Dumoulin-D (Pit), Logan Morrison-F, Ales Stezka-G, Marian Studenic-F (Dal), Kailer Yamamoto-F (Edm)
Subtractions: Ryan Donato-F (Chi), Joonas Donskoi-F, Jesper Froden-F, Morgan Geekie-F (Bos), Christopher Gibson-G, Martin Jones-G (Tor), Austin Poganski-F, Brogan Rafferty-D (Det), Carson Soucy-D (Van), Daniel Sprong-F (Det), Alexander True-F (Fla), Carsen Twarynski-F
The Kraken was one of the surprise teams in the league last year after going from the cellar in year one to the playoffs in year two. They could get there again but things will have to swing their way in what is one of the toughest divisions in the NHL. The team will need better production in goal and hope that last year’s massive jump in goals scored was more due to talent than luck.
Vancouver Canucks
Additions: Teddy Blueger-F (VGK), Ian Cole-D (TB), Akito Hirose-D, Matt Irwin-D (Wsh), Cole McWard-D, Max Sasson-F, Zach Sawchenko-G (Car), Carson Soucy-D (Sea), Pius Suter-F (Det), Nikita Tolopilo-G
Subtractions: Ethan Bear-D, Kyle Burroughs-D (SJ), Collin Delia-G (Wpg), Travis Dermott-D (Ari), Justin Dowling-F (NJ), Oliver Ekman-Larsson-D (Fla), Micheal Ferland-F, Carson Focht-F, Brady Keeper-D (Mtl), John Stevens-F, Reilly Smith-F (Pit)
The Canucks saw vast improvement when Rick Tocchet took over as coach last season. With several additions aimed at improving the team’s defense, it wouldn’t be a shock to see the Canucks hop over a couple of last year’s playoff teams and sneak in this year.
Calgary Flames
Additions: Brady Lyle-D (Bos), Jordan Oesterle-D (Det), Yegor Sharangovich-F (NJ)
Subtractions: Trevor Lewis-F (LA), Milan Lucic-F (Bos), Nicolas Meloche-D, Matthew Phillips-F (Wsh), Nick Ritchie-F, Kristians Rubins-D, Troy Stecher-D (Ari), Michael Stone-D, Tyler Toffoli-F (NJ)
New coach Ryan Huska will be tasked with getting last year’s disappointing team back in the right direction. They struggled after dealing away Tkachuk and finished well out of the playoff picture. They bring back the same core but could be a playoff team with improved play in net thanks to a solid blue-line core.
Anaheim Ducks
Additions: Andrew Agozzino-F (SJ), Trevor Carrick-D (TB), Robert Hagg-D (Det), Alex Killorn-F (TB), Ilya Lyubushkin-D (Buf), Alex Stalock-G (Chi), Jaxsen Wiebe-F
Subtractions: Axel Andersson-D, Nathan Beaulieu-D, Simon Benoit-D (Tor), Maxime Comtois-F, Michael Del Zotto-D, Olle Eriksson Ek-, Derek Grant-F, Scott Harrington-D, Olli Juolevi-D, Bryce Kindopp-F, Justin Kirkland-F (Ari), Jayson Megna-F (Bos), John Moore-D, Chase Priskie-D (Wsh), Kevin Shattenkirk-D (Bos), Dylan Sikura-F, Josiah Slavin-F,
Anthony Stolarz-G (Fla)
The Ducks will likely be out of the playoffs for the sixth straight year. They have some solid young forwards that will need to improve but they also have the league’s worst defense and shaky goaltending. Improvement will be an uptick in points as a team and continued growth from their young forwards.
San Jose Sharks
Additions: Mackenzie Blackwood-G (NJ), Kyle Burroughs-D (Van), Ryan Carpenter-F (NYR), Anthony Duclair-F (Fla), Leon Gawanke-D (Wpg), Mikael Granlund-F (Pit), Mike Hoffman-F (Mtl), Valtteri Pulli-D, Georgi Romanov-G, Jan Rutta-D (Pit), Scott Sabourin-F (Ott), Givani Smith-F (Fla), Filip Zadina-F (Det)
Subtractions: Andrew Agozzino-F (Ana), Kyle Criscuolo-F (NJ), Aaron Dell-G, Jonah Gadjovich-F, Noah Gregor-F, Dillon Hamaliuk-F (Pit), Andreas Johnsson-F (Pit), Erik Karlsson-D (Pit), Artemi Knyazev-D (Wpg), Steven Lorentz-F (Fla), Strauss Mann-G, Markus Nutivaara-D, Derrick Pouliot-D (Dal), James Reimer-G (Det), C.J. Suess-F, Andrej Sustr-D, Evgeni Svechnikov-F, Max Veronneau-F, Jeffrey Viel-F (Wpg)
The Sharks traded their best player, defenseman Erik Karlsson, to Pittsburgh in order to acquire more draft picks and some solid veterans. They also traded for goalie Mackenzie Blackwood to help what was a bottom-five defense. The Sharks are rebuilding and the playoffs are a distant dream at this point.
*Odds to win the Stanley Cup, courtesy of DraftKings.com
Playoff Predictions
Eastern Conference: Toronto over Florida
Yes, I’m taking the leap. This will finally be the year that the Maple Leafs get over the hump and advance to the Stanley Cup Finals. Both teams will benefit from a weaker conference with the likes of Tampa Bay and Boston falling back to the back this season.
Western Conference: Edmonton over Dallas
The Oilers will take down the Stars in the Western Conference finals. Both teams will have to navigate a tougher conference than in the East, getting by Vegas and the Kings to earn a spot in the final four. The Oilers’ McDavid will finally get to the biggest stage.
Stanley Cup Finals: Toronto over Edmonton
The league’s two marquee players, Connor McDavid and Auston Matthews, will be on display fighting for the Stanley Cup. Matthews and the Maple Leafs will win what should be a long, exciting series and bring the Cup back to Canada.
