Articles / What's real and what's not in the NHL's Atlantic Division?

What's real and what's not in the NHL's Atlantic Division?

S
Sportsnet
Oct 29, 2025 2:14 PM

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The Atlantic Division of the NHL is generating buzz as teams prepare for the upcoming season. The Boston Bruins are facing challenges after the retirement of their star players, including David Krejci and the departure of key contributors in free agency. Despite this, the Bruins are still expected to compete thanks to their solid foundation and the emergence of young talent such as Jake DeBrusk and Jeremy Swayman.

The Toronto Maple Leafs continue to be an enigma. Expectations loom large over their superstars, including Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner. With new management in place, there’s hope that a fresh perspective can finally break their playoff curse. The addition of new players may bolster their chances, but consistency remains a question.

Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Lightning are looking to reclaim their dominance after a disappointing early exit in the playoffs. With seasoned veterans like Steven Stamkos and Nikita Kucherov still in the mix, the Lightning's experience could be their greatest asset. Their quest for the cup will hinge on the collective ability to adapt to the ever-evolving league dynamics.

Lastly, the Florida Panthers are riding high after their remarkable playoff run last season, where they showed resilience and depth in their roster. Key contributors, including Matthew Tkachuk, will be pivotal in ensuring that they remain a contender in the division. The Panthers' success will depend on their ability to maintain that momentum and stay healthy throughout the season as they strive for even more success.