NHL power rankings as 2026-27 season opens: Who will challenge for Stanley Cup?

The 2026-27 NHL season is opening with significant storylines from an eventful offseason, including trade requests from Winnipeg Jets goalie Connor Hellebuyck and Detroit Red Wings center Dylan Larkin. Brady Tkachuk was traded to the Florida Panthers, while the Philadelphia Flyers' offer sheet to Anaheim Ducks center Leo Carlsson reshaped younger player salaries. Cale Makar became the NHL's first $20 million player, with his deal surpassing Macklin Celebrini's contract.