The NHL Power Rankings for the upcoming 2025-26 season reflect the teams' strengths based on recent developments during the summer. The Florida Panthers celebrated their Stanley Cup success and retained key players. The Edmonton Oilers face pressure regarding Connor McDavid's future and must address goaltending challenges. The Dallas Stars replaced their coach after reaching the Western Conference finals. The Carolina Hurricanes acquired a top free agent, Nikolaj Ehlers, who may influence their postseason. Additionally, the Vegas Knights acquired Mitch Marner, complicating their salary cap situation.
The compressed NHL schedule for the end of the Stanley Cup playoffs, draft and free agency means that the majority of July and August is a bit slower. However, it's also the perfect time to refresh the Power Rankings of all 32 teams heading into 2025-26.
The Panthers had another epic celebration with the Stanley Cup, then proceeded to re-sign their big three pending free agents: Aaron Ekblad, Sam Bennett and Brad Marchand. Is a three-peat possible?
Another trip to the Western Conference finals wasn't enough for Peter DeBoer to save his job, who was replaced by former Stars coach Glen Gulutzan in July. How will the first full season of the Mikko Rantanen Era go?
Given all the re-signings this offseason, there weren't a bevy of high-impact free agents available. However, one of the top ones signed with the Hurricanes. How will Nikolaj Ehlers be deployed in Rod Brind'Amour's system?
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