Skip to content

Loading the ESPN board…

Scores

NHL2d ago

Early NHL Season Brings Mix of Surprises Across Teams

Power rankings highlight unexpected developments for clubs two weeks into 2026-27 campaign

By OddsListing wire desk

· 1 min read

Early NHL Season Brings Mix of Surprises Across Teams
On this page3 sections
  1. Injury Woes Hit Top Clubs
  2. Scoring Paces Defy Expectations
  3. Goaltending and Special Teams Stand Out

Injury Woes Hit Top Clubs

The Hurricanes hold the top spot in the latest poll despite dealing with significant setbacks. Captain Jordan Staal suffered a torn calf muscle that will sideline him for one to two months, while Taylor Hall also exited with an upper body issue. The Panthers have faced similar challenges with key absences for Aleksander Barkov and Brad Marchand.

Scoring Paces Defy Expectations

Edmonton defenseman Evan Bouchard has posted 14 points in the first six games. Utah has averaged 3.88 goals per contest, more than half a goal above last season's rate. Winnipeg forward Kyle Connor has seven goals through six outings. Toronto's Auston Matthews and William Nylander each have 12 points in seven games.

Goaltending and Special Teams Stand Out

Ottawa netminder Linus Ullmark has a 1.20 goals-against average and.949 save percentage in six starts. Tampa Bay allows 2.67 goals per game across six contests. Anaheim's power play operates at 33.3 percent through six games. Dallas has converted at just 12.5 percent on the man advantage in seven outings.

Analysis, not a wagering instruction. Confirm every number on the sportsbook. 21+.

Sportsbooks

Rankings
  1. 1BetUS logo
    BetUS

    200% welcome bonus up to $1,000

  2. 2BookMaker logo
    BookMaker

    Welcome bonus up to $500

International desk: licensed offshore, not by a U.S. state — confirm the law where you live. Paid partner links. 21+.