Every NHL season brings its unique blend of excitement, surprises, and new storylines, and the 2024 season is certainly no exception. As the hockey world watches, several teams have flipped the script on pre-season expectations. Some once-dominant teams find themselves struggling, while unexpected contenders are rising to challenge the status quo.
Utah's Bold Moves and Bright Outlook
Among the most talked-about teams this season is Utah. Once mired in relocation rumors, Utah has made significant strides to cement its future in the NHL with a series of strategic acquisitions and commendable young talent. The recent 2024 NHL Draft saw Utah acquire defenseman Mikhail Sergachev from the Tampa Bay Lightning, a move that has fortified their blue line dramatically. Adding to their defensive strength, Utah also secured John Marino from the New Jersey Devils and integrated Sean Durzi into their defensive roster.
Offensively, Clayton Keller aims to build on his impressive 76-point campaign from the 2023-24 season. With a young core featuring Logan Cooley, the No. 3 overall pick in 2022, who had a strong rookie season with 20 goals and 44 points, and Dylan Guenther, the No. 9 overall pick in 2021, who tallied 35 points in 45 games, Utah's future looks promising. Additionally, Connor Ingram has proven himself between the pipes, saving 5.05 goals above average last season and maintaining a high-danger save percentage of .841.
Buffalo Sabres: A New Hope
Meanwhile, the Buffalo Sabres, who have not made a playoff appearance since 2011, have also taken notable steps forward. Last season, Alex Tuch was a bright spot with 22 goals and 37 assists, while Tage Thompson contributed 56 points in 71 games. The youthful energy of JJ Peterka, a 22-year-old forward who reached the 28-goal mark and notched 50 points, adds optimism to the Sabres' aspirations.
The addition of Jack Quinn, the No. 8 overall pick in 2020, who marked his rookie season in 2022-23 with 14 goals, further strengthens Buffalo’s young core. Defensively, the acquisition of Bowen Byram is notable, while goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukonen saved 10.1 goals above average last season, promising security at the net.
Stars of Montreal and Rising Talents
Montreal is another team to watch closely this season. Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield have combined for an impressive 61 goals and 81 assists, anchoring the team's offensive thrust. With Suzuki at 24 years old and Caufield at 23, these young stars are poised to lead Montreal into a new era of competitiveness. Juraj Slafkovsky also made waves last season, contributing 20 goals and 30 assists.
Adding to the excitement, Lane Hutson made his debut last season, playing two games. His stellar collegiate career at Boston University, amassing 97 points in 77 games, indicates great potential for the future.
Setbacks and Comebacks
Patrik Laine’s significant knee injury in a preseason game is a setback, reminding fans of the volatility of sports careers. Yet, other players are stepping up. Matt Boldy has showcased his scoring prowess with 75 goals and 96 points in 203 NHL games, maintaining a 30-goal pace over the last two seasons. Marco Rossi contributed 40 points in his first full season and played the second-most five-on-five minutes of any Wild forward, controlling 52.9% of expected goals during five-on-five play last season.
As the 2024 NHL season unfolds, fans have plenty of developing stories to follow. Teams are navigating the ups and downs with a mix of veteran stability and youthful exuberance, setting the stage for a compelling season that promises to keep everyone on the edge of their seats.