Lapsed fan's guide to the NHL season: Top teams, players and storylines for 2026-27
Miss anything since the end of June? Miss EVERYTHING since then? Get caught up here.
The NHL season is just around the corner, and for those who may have missed the flurry of activity since the Stanley Cup Finals, it's time to get caught up. The offseason has been a wild ride, with several top teams making significant moves to bolster their rosters. The Tampa Bay Lightning, for example, locked up their star players with long-term extensions, while the Colorado Avalanche made a splash by acquiring a top-tier defenseman.
For players, this season promises to be just as exciting. Superstars like Connor McDavid and Auston Matthews are looking to lead their teams to the top of the standings, while young guns like Juraj Slafkovský and Matthew Poitevin are eager to make a name for themselves. With the salary cap on the rise, teams are getting more aggressive in their pursuit of talent, which should lead to some thrilling matchups and playoff battles.
As we head into the 2026-27 season, all eyes will be on the top teams in the league, including the Boston Bruins, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Vegas Golden Knights. Will they be able to sustain their success, or will other teams rise to challenge them? Keep an eye on the trade rumors, as teams look to make adjustments on the fly, and don't be surprised if some surprise teams emerge as contenders. One thing's for sure - this season is shaping up to be an exciting one, and fans won't want to miss a minute of the action.
Originally reported by espn.com. PlayerNews adds analysis for sports & fitness readers.