The National Hockey League will be here before we know it. We expect a great season on ice as the Vegas Golden Knights are looking to defend their Stanley Cup title. Let’s take a look at an Early Season Outlook for the National Hockey League:
View the 2022 NHL Standings here
NHL – Metropolitan Division 2023 – Outlook
Carolina Hurricanes
A season ago, the Hurricanes went to the Eastern Conference Finals. Now they are looking to take one step further and get into the Stanley Cup Finals this time. The signing of Dmitry Orlov was a big one that should pay dividends throughout the season. The Hurricanes will be in a great battle with the Devils to take down the divisional title.
New Jersey Devils
Despite a second-round loss a season ago, this team is poised to bust through this season. The young talent is incredible, with Hughes, Hischier, and Bratt all being 25 years old or under. The Devils are going to be one of the favorites in the Eastern Conference. There is no doubt this team can compete with anyone; now, let’s see if they actually do break out and get into the Eastern Conference Finals.
New York Rangers
After making noise and grabbing Patrick Kane and Vladimir Tarasenko last season, the Rangers let them both go to free agency. New York did grab an interesting move getting Blake Wheeler and also Jonathan Quick to back up Igor Shesterkin.
New York Islanders
The Islanders got Bo Horvat last summer, so there were not a ton of big moves to be made this summer. The season is going to depend a lot on goaltender Ilya Sorokin. He signed an eight-year extension and gives the Islanders a lot of hope between the pipes.
Pittsburgh Penguins
The addition of Erik Karlsson was a good one. The window is barely open, but it is still there for stars Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin. Reilly Smith and Ryan Graves also joined Pittsburgh for the season.
Washington Capitals
When the only notable addition is Joel Edmundson, you did not win the off-season.
Philadelphia Flyers
Under head coach John Tortorella, the Flyers rebuild seems a little strange. They were able to unload several veterans, including Kevin Hayes. This seems to be a write-off season for the Flyers heading into 2023-2024.
Columbus Blue Jackets
The Blue Jackets are led by head coach Mike Babcock, who has success getting teams to the postseason. Can the Blue Jackets do it? That’s what we will see. They did add some talent and are excited for rookie Adam Fantili this season.
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There you have it. That’s a quick look at all the teams in the NHL Metropolitan Division 2023. Enjoy the season, and best of luck!
Check out the other divisions coming soon!
