The upcoming 2025-26 NHL season is just around the corner, with Canadian teams hitting the ice in a week’s time. Notably, the Olympic men’s hockey tournament will kick off in 134 days. Here are some key storylines unfolding in the league:
Florida’s quest for a third consecutive Stanley Cup title faces challenges. The last team to achieve this feat was the New York Islanders in the early 1980s. Despite re-signing key players like Sam Bennett, Brad Marchand, and Aaron Ekblad, the Florida Panthers will miss their top talents due to injuries, including Matthew Tkachuk and Aleksander Barkov. Additionally, the NHL has closed the loophole that allowed teams to bolster their rosters through long-term injured reserve designations.
Connor McDavid’s future with the Edmonton Oilers remains uncertain as he approaches free agency. With the recent record-breaking contract signed by Kirill Kaprizov, speculations arise about McDavid becoming the first $20-million-per-year player in the NHL. While the Oilers are willing to pay top dollar to retain McDavid, his decision to stay or explore other options continues to fuel discussions.
Sidney Crosby, a longstanding figure with the Pittsburgh Penguins, may be considering a change as the team’s performance dwindles. Despite his consistent on-ice success, Crosby’s contract remains relatively modest compared to current market standards. With the Penguins facing challenges, Crosby might entertain the idea of joining a contender seeking his leadership skills.
The future of Alex Ovechkin with the Washington Capitals is also under scrutiny. Having achieved numerous accolades and milestones, including breaking Wayne Gretzky’s goal-scoring record, Ovechkin’s contract expiration and age raise questions about his retirement plans. While there were hints suggesting a possible retirement, Ovechkin has not confirmed his future in the league.
On the horizon, 17-year-old standout Gavin McKenna emerges as a top prospect for the 2026 NHL draft. Hailing from Whitehorse, McKenna’s success in the Canadian Hockey League has positioned him as a player to watch. As he transitions to collegiate hockey at Penn State University, McKenna’s journey reflects the evolving landscape of young talents making their mark in the sport.