The 2025-26 NHL season kicked off on Tuesday with three American matchups, featuring the Florida Panthers celebrating their second consecutive Stanley Cup win by defeating the Chicago Blackhawks 3-2.
Canadian teams hit the ice the following night, with the Toronto Maple Leafs facing off against the Montreal Canadiens and the Edmonton Oilers taking on the Calgary Flames.
Let’s take a look at the Canadian teams in the league:
**Edmonton Oilers**
Last season, the Oilers had a 48-29-5 record, finishing third in the Pacific Division and losing in the Stanley Cup final to the Panthers. Star player Connor McDavid signed a surprising two-year, $25 million contract extension, maintaining his current salary. With McDavid and Leon Draisaitl leading the team, the Oilers are top contenders for the Cup. However, goaltending and roster depth remain concerns, especially with Zach Hyman sidelined due to a wrist injury.
**Toronto Maple Leafs**
In the previous season, the Leafs finished first in the Atlantic Division with a 52-26-4 record but lost in the second round to the Panthers. The team faced significant changes, with Mitch Marner leaving for Vegas on a lucrative deal. GM Brad Treliving focused on retaining key players like John Tavares and Matthew Knies. Captain Auston Matthews is back in form after recovering from an injury.
**Winnipeg Jets**
The Jets had a stellar 56-22-4 season, clinching the Central Division title and winning the Presidents’ Trophy. Despite their regular-season success, they faltered in the playoffs, losing to Dallas in the second round. Key player Connor Hellebuyck’s performance in the postseason raised concerns. The team made strategic moves in the offseason, including signing veteran Jonathan Toews.
**Ottawa Senators**
Last season, the Senators secured a playoff spot after a strong performance from Brady Tkachuk, Tim Stutzle, and Jake Sanderson. They put up a tough fight against Toronto in the playoffs but fell short. The team is banking on its young core to continue their development. The Atlantic Division may present opportunities for Ottawa with key players from other teams facing injuries.
**Montreal Canadiens**
The Canadiens showed improvement last season, securing a playoff berth ahead of schedule. Calder Trophy winner Lane Hutson and standout performances from Cole Caufield and Nick Suzuki boosted the team’s performance. GM Kent Hughes made notable acquisitions, including Noah Dobson, aiming to strengthen the defensive lineup. The team looks promising for the upcoming season.
**Calgary Flames**
After missing the playoffs in the previous season, the Flames made a strong finish but narrowly missed a wild card spot. Goaltender Dustin Wolf impressed in his rookie season, while Nazem Kadri and Jonathan Huberdeau stepped up in scoring. The team is looking to bolster its offensive capabilities, with young talent like Zayne Parekh showing promise.
**Vancouver Canucks**
The Canucks faced challenges last season, missing the playoffs despite a strong playoff run in the previous year. Internal conflicts and injuries affected the team’s performance. Changes were made, including a coaching switch and player acquisitions like Evander Kane. Vancouver aims to bounce back with renewed energy and strategic moves.
The Canadian teams are gearing up for an exciting season, each with its own set of strengths and challenges. Fans can expect thrilling matchups and intense competition as the season unfolds.
