NHL Contenders Struggle Early In Season

Anaheim Ducks right wing Troy Terry, top, jumps over Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar, bottom, in pursuit of the puck in overtime of an NHL hockey game Friday, Oct. 18, 2024, in Denver. (AP Ph

Peter DeBoer, the experienced coach of the Dallas Stars, expressed concerns about his team's performance following consecutive trips to the Western Conference Final. DeBoer pondered whether the Stars would experience a slow start or a post-playoff hangover. However, the Stars have started the season impressively with a 5-1-0 record.

On the other hand, some Stanley Cup contenders in the Western Conference, such as Colorado, Edmonton, and Nashville, have struggled early in the season. These teams combined to lose 13 of their first 17 games, causing a shakeup in the league standings.

The Nashville Predators, in particular, have faced a challenging start, losing their first five games in regulation. Despite significant offseason acquisitions, including Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault, the Predators have been outscored 23-10.

Stars start impressively with a 5-1-0 record.

Peter DeBoer concerned about Stars' performance post-playoffs.

Colorado, Edmonton, and Nashville struggle early in the season.

Nashville Predators lose first five games despite offseason acquisitions.

Edmonton Oilers stumble with offensive and defensive struggles.

Colorado Avalanche face defensive lapses and goaltending issues.

League sees high goal-scoring and turnovers early in the season.

Strong goaltending performances stand out across the league.

Similarly, the Edmonton Oilers, who reached the Cup final last season, have stumbled out of the gate, losing their first three games. The team, led by stars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, has struggled offensively and defensively.

The Colorado Avalanche have also faced difficulties, with defensive lapses and goaltending issues contributing to their slow start. Injuries and lineup changes have further complicated matters for the Avalanche.

Across the league, turnovers and mistakes have been prevalent early in the season. Teams are averaging 6.4 goals per game, the highest in over three decades. Coaches attribute this to players adjusting to the season and focusing on defensive details.

Despite the challenges, several teams have excelled, thanks in part to strong goaltending performances. Players like Jake Oettinger, Connor Hellebuyck, and Igor Shesterkin have stood out with impressive stats.

New Jersey Devils, under new coach Sheldon Keefe, have performed well, going 5-2-1. The Washington Capitals have also started strong, with players like Dylan Strome and Tom Wilson leading the team in scoring.

As the season progresses, all eyes are on Alex Ovechkin's pursuit of Wayne Gretzky's career goals record. Ovechkin, currently 41 goals away from breaking the record, continues to be a focal point in the league.