Unexpected Performances in the 2025-26 NHL Season
As the 2025-26 NHL season reaches its first month, several teams have captured attention with unexpectedly strong performances. Among them, three franchises entered the season with modest projections but have risen to the occasion, leaving critics surprised. Let’s take a closer look at these remarkable teams and the factors fueling their success.
Anaheim Ducks
Record: 11-3-1, Points: 23
The Anaheim Ducks have burst out of the starting gate, currently positioned at the summit of the Pacific Division and boasting an impressive 23 points, placing them second overall in the league. This marks a significant turnaround from last season’s dismal finish, where they posted a 35-37-10 record and faced the disappointment of missing the playoffs for the seventh consecutive year. The Ducks now harbor ambitions of breaking that playoff drought, with BetMGM assigning them a 1.40 (-250) probability of qualifying for the postseason, in stark contrast to a 3.00 (+200) chance of falling short.
Key to their success has been standout performances from rookie Leo Carlsson, who has netted 10 goals and accumulated 25 points in just 15 games, alongside Cutter Gauthier‘s 11 goals and 20 points over the same span. Additionally, the impact of newcomer Chris Kreider, contributing nine goals and 12 points in 11 appearances, has been invaluable.
Chicago Blackhawks
Record: 8-5-3, Points: 19
Following a subdued offseason, the Chicago Blackhawks were largely predicted to struggle throughout the 2025-26 season. However, the rebuilding team has surprised many with a commendable start, recording an 8-5-3 record that places them third in the Central Division. Their momentum is evident, as they have won their last three games and six out of the last ten, demonstrating improvement as the season progresses.
A vital component of their early success is rookie sensation Connor Bedard, who has delivered nine goals and 25 points in 16 games. Goaltender Spencer Knight has also been a standout, achieving a 6-3-2 record with a .926 save percentage and a 2.33 goals-against average. Supporting players such as Frank Nazar, Andre Burakovsky, and Tyler Bertuzzi have also contributed significantly. The Blackhawks currently hold a 7.50 (+600) chance of making the playoffs, while their odds of missing out sit at 1.10 (-1000).
Pittsburgh Penguins
Record: 9-5-3, Points: 21
With expectations low this season, the Pittsburgh Penguins have surprised the league by currently ranking third in the Metropolitan Division after 17 games. Although they have seen a dip in form, recently losing two consecutive games and achieving a 4-3-3 record over the last ten, they remain a competitive force in the Eastern Conference, sitting fourth in overall points.
Both Evgeni Malkin and Sidney Crosby have ignited their performance early in the season, playing pivotal roles in the team’s success. The influx of talent from free-agent signings like Anthony Mantha, along with the potential of a currently injured Justin Brazeau, has bolstered Pittsburgh’s offensive lineup. Additionally, the Penguins’ goaltending has experienced a positive shift, with Arturs Silovs recording a .916 save percentage over nine games and Tristan Jarry a .911 save percentage in seven games.
As the season progresses, Pittsburgh’s odds stand at 3.40 (+240) for making the playoffs, while missing them carries a likelihood of 1.33 (-303).
With these teams defying expectations early in the season, a sense of intrigue hangs in the air as fans watch how their journeys unfold.
