NHL season preview: Strengths, weaknesses, X factors for all 32 teams

ESPN has published a comprehensive NHL season preview analyzing all 32 teams, including their strengths, weaknesses, and X factors heading into the new season. Carolina Hurricanes are highlighted as the reigning Stanley Cup champions and the team to beat, with the article also noting that the San Jose Sharks have made Macklin Celebrini, 20, the youngest-ever team captain in franchise history. The preview also covers recent roster moves, including the New York Islanders signing defenseman Stanley to a one-year contract and the Hurricanes extending goalie Kochetkov through the 2028-29 season.