by John Lavers
The NHL season kicked off on October 7th, and hockey fans everywhere were ready. After a long summer of trades, free agency moves, and training camps, every team has one goal in mind- the Stanley Cup
Last season ended with the Florida Panthers winning their second championship. They conquered the Edmonton Oilers for the second straight year. Oilers stars Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid came up short again.
In the Eastern Conference, things are looking super competitive. The Capitals had one of the best records in the league, but they fell short in the playoffs. Meanwhile, the Toronto Maple Leafs, led by star center Auston Matthews try to capture their first cup in over 60 years. Additionally, the New York Rangers, one year removed from winning the regular season title, missed the playoffs last year. However, they still boast an incredibly strong roster with Artemi Panarin and goalie Igor Shesterkin. Another team to watch is the New Jersey Devils. With Jack Hughes and Nico Hischier hoping to stay healthy and lead the team to a playoff season.
Out west, the Colorado Avalanche, Dallas Stars and Edmonton Oilers are expected to fight for the top spot. Nathan Mackinnon, last year’s Hart Trophy winner(the NHL’s MVP award), will have a major impact on the success of the Avalanche. The Stars roster is more well rounded, punctuated by goaltender Jake Oettinger.
In New York, the Islanders and Rangers are looking to bounce back after missing the playoffs. It will be interesting to see how this year’s number one pick, Matthew Schaefer of the New York Islanders, performs. The Buffalo Sabres are hoping their young core can break their huge playoff drought, the longest in the league. There’s a lot of hockey for New York fans to watch this year.
Comments are closed.