Articles / EDGE stats: 3 early surprises of 2025-26 season

EDGE stats: 3 early surprises of 2025-26 season

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NHL.com
Oct 17, 2025 4:07 PM

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The 2025-26 NHL season has already presented fans and analysts alike with some surprising insights and emerging trends. One of the notable surprises has been the remarkable performance of the Seattle Kraken, who have exceeded expectations with a cohesive team effort. With standout players like Matty Beniers and Jordan Eberle leading the charge, the Kraken are proving to be a formidable force in the Western Conference.

Meanwhile, the Florida Panthers have made headlines with their aggressive playstyle, featuring standout goaltending from Sergei Bobrovsky. Their high-octane offense has been particularly striking, showcasing forwards such as Aleksander Barkov and Matthew Tkachuk, who have both exceeded point-per-game averages early on in the season. The combination of their offensive prowess and solid defensive structures has made the Panthers a team to watch this season.

In another surprising twist, the New York Rangers have struggled out of the gate despite high expectations. With star players like Artemi Panarin and Adam Fox, fans are puzzled by the team's inconsistency. Early losses have left fans questioning the team's cohesion and ability to perform collectively, particularly in tight matchups against rivals like the Pittsburgh Penguins.

As the season progresses, it will be fascinating to see whether these early surprises hold true or if teams like the Rangers find their rhythm. The dynamics of the NHL are ever-changing, and each game brings new opportunities for both teams and players to redefine their narratives.