NHL Preseason Insights
As the NHL preseason wraps up, fans and analysts alike are turning their attention to which players are poised to make significant strides in their careers during the upcoming season. The previous year saw Dylan Guenther and Matthew Knies receive accolades for their remarkable development, and now several other players are stepping into the spotlight ahead of the 2025-26 season.
It’s important to note that a breakout performance doesn’t solely hinge on scoring numbers; it can also encompass increased roles in gameplay, such as enhanced responsibility at even strength, more prominent involvement in special teams, or taking on tougher matchups. Many recognized names are expected to assume larger roles this season, with some likely to achieve substantial offensive growth.
Key Players to Watch
Connor Bedard, Center, Chicago Blackhawks
The high-profile Bedard is a clear candidate for a breakout year. Following two seasons marked by underwhelming expectations, there are signs that this might finally be his breakthrough moment. Historical comparisons highlight that even success stories like Nathan MacKinnon didn’t fully shine until later in their careers, suggesting patience may be essential with Bedard, particularly given his smaller stature.
His preseason performance showcased his impressive shot and vision, setting the stage for a strong regular season. If he maintains good health, there’s a reasonable expectation for him to exceed one point per game. Competing for an Olympic spot will further drive his performance, requiring an output between 85 and 90 points, which seems feasible based on his skill set.
Bedard’s potential for increased playing time should allow him to generate around four shots per game. If he maintains a shooting percentage of 13% over approximately 270 shots, he could secure around 35 goals, a distinct improvement over his last two seasons. Considering all factors, projecting 32 goals and 55 assists seems plausible for his upcoming year.
Quinton Byfield, Center, Los Angeles Kings
At 6-foot-5 and weighing 225 pounds, Byfield is ready to step up as the Kings’ top-line center, particularly as Anze Kopitar approaches retirement. The need for Byfield to embrace tough game situations will be paramount in his development. While Kopitar still plays a critical role, Byfield is on the cusp of being a pivotal forward capable of achieving 80 points while being dependable defensively.
After two consecutive seasons of accumulating around 55 points, Byfield is expected to leverage his combination of speed and strength to dominate on the ice. With a shift toward increased ice time in the top six and a larger role on the power play, Byfield could realistically target a season of 30 goals and 45 assists.
Matty Beniers, Center, Seattle Kraken
Beniers, at just 22, has already established himself as one of the NHL’s preeminent two-way centers. Despite his ability, offensive production has not yet reached the next level, which is crucial for the Kraken’s offensive strategy. This season may see Beniers in the thick of the competition for the Selke Trophy, indicative of being one of the best defensive forwards, provided he can pair that performance with enhanced offensive contributions.
Under the guidance of new coach Lane Lambert, whose strategy leans towards an aggressive penalty kill, Beniers will find himself in prime situations that could amplify his scoring opportunities. Having previously recorded 57 points in a secondary role, an increased responsibility against tougher opponents this season could yield over 60 points for Beniers while maintaining his defensive prowess.
Zach Benson, Left Wing, Buffalo Sabres
Benson’s move to the Sabres’ top line alongside seasoned players like Tage Thompson could spark significant growth in his stats. After finishing last season with 28 points while averaging under 15 minutes per game, he’s on track to nearly double that production this year, with projections suggesting he could score between 55 and 60 points.
Growing his average ice time to approximately 19 minutes, alongside opportunities on the power play, Benson is expected to encounter greater competition against elite defenders. Nevertheless, with high-level teammates around him, he should be primed to excel in the offensive zone, contributing a projected 22 goals and 35 assists.
Cole Perfetti, Center, Winnipeg Jets
With Nikolaj Ehlers departing for Carolina, Perfetti stands to gain substantial opportunities this coming season. His impressive playoff performances last year solidify his right to play top minutes, both in even strength scenarios and on the power play.
If Perfetti can boost his average playing time to 17 minutes, his scoring could bloom, potentially yielding 70 points for the 2025-26 season. With projections for 25 to 30 goals, given an anticipated increase in power-play minutes, Perfetti looks ready to seize the moment.
Logan Stankoven, Center, Carolina Hurricanes
Since moving from Dallas to Carolina, Stankoven‘s opportunity has expanded, with responsibilities as the second-line center enhancing his production. His average ice time is slated to grow to roughly 17 minutes this season, which should coincide with playing alongside offensive talents like Andrei Svechnikov or Ehlers.
Stankoven’s playmaking could effectively elevate his linemates’ performances, while his skill set is likely to lead to increased point production. Given the skilled players surrounding him and his rising time on ice, fans should anticipate a noticeable improvement in his numbers this year.
Conclusion
As these players gear up for the new season, all eyes will be on them as they look to transform their potential into tangible results in the NHL. With increasing opportunities at stake, the 2025-26 season promises to offer captivating performances from these emerging talents.
