The NHL’s 2025-26 season kicked off on Tuesday night with three American matchups, featuring the Florida Panthers celebrating their back-to-back Stanley Cup wins by defeating the Chicago Blackhawks 3-2. Canadian teams joined the action the following night, with the Toronto Maple Leafs facing the Montreal Canadiens and the Edmonton Oilers taking on the Calgary Flames.
Let’s take a look at how each of the seven Canadian teams is faring as they start their campaigns:
Edmonton Oilers:
In the previous season, the Oilers finished with a 48-29-5 record, securing 3rd place in the Pacific Division and falling to the Panthers in the Stanley Cup finals. The team got a boost when Connor McDavid signed a surprising two-year, $25-million US contract extension, maintaining his current salary. With McDavid and Leon Draisaitl leading the charge, the Oilers are strong contenders for the Cup. However, questions remain about their goaltending and roster depth, especially with Zach Hyman sidelined due to a wrist injury.
Toronto Maple Leafs:
Last season, the Leafs finished with a 52-26-4 record, topping the Atlantic Division but losing in the second round to the Panthers. Following Mitch Marner’s departure to Vegas, the team made key signings, including retaining John Tavares and securing young talent like Matthew Knies. Captain Auston Matthews is back in form after an injury, aiming to lead the Leafs to playoff success.
Winnipeg Jets:
The Jets had a stellar regular season, winning the Central Division and clinching the Presidents’ Trophy. However, their playoff run was cut short by the Dallas Stars in the second round. Despite the disappointment, goalie Connor Hellebuyck’s MVP performance and the addition of veteran Jonathan Toews provide hope for a strong campaign ahead.
Ottawa Senators:
With a 45-30-7 record last season, the Senators made a playoff appearance after a long hiatus. Led by Brady Tkachuk, Tim Stutzle, and Jake Sanderson, Ottawa aims to build on their playoff experience and challenge the Atlantic Division teams. The absence of key players in rival teams may work in their favor.
Montreal Canadiens:
After a remarkable improvement last season, the Canadiens earned a playoff spot ahead of schedule. The team’s young talent, including Lane Hutson and Cole Caufield, showed promise, while the acquisition of Noah Dobson bolstered their defense. With a renewed roster and coaching staff, Montreal looks to continue its upward trajectory.
Calgary Flames:
Despite missing the playoffs in 2024, the Flames showed resilience in the final stretch of the season. Strong performances from Dustin Wolf and Nazem Kadri, along with promising prospects like Zayne Parekh, offer hope for a better showing this season. Calgary aims to boost its scoring and compete for a playoff berth.
Vancouver Canucks:
The Canucks faced challenges last season, with key players underperforming and internal issues affecting team chemistry. With changes in coaching staff and player roster, Vancouver looks to bounce back. Notable moves include acquiring Evander Kane and securing Brock Boeser long-term. The team aims to return to playoff contention and overcome past struggles.
These Canadian teams are gearing up for an exciting NHL season, each with unique storylines and aspirations as they strive for success on the ice.
