In the world of NHL hockey, there are always burning questions surrounding every team. From contract negotiations to potential trades, the excitement is palpable as training camps open and preseason games loom on the horizon. This week, The Athletic polled its staff on the biggest question facing each team heading into camp, and the responses were nothing short of tantalizing.
One major question mark revolves around restricted free agent goaltender Jeremy Swayman and his impending deal with the Bruins. Fans are on the edge of their seats, wondering when and for how much Swayman will sign. In the words of one observer, “It’s a waiting game right now, but the anticipation is killing us.”
Meanwhile, over in New York, all eyes are on Rangers captain Jacob Trouba. Can he put the trade rumors swirling around him to rest and focus on leading his team to success? Trouba’s resolve will be put to the test as the season kicks off.
In Ottawa, the Senators are hoping that Linus Ullmark will be the answer to their goaltending prayers. Will Ullmark finally provide the stability between the pipes that the team has been desperately seeking? Only time will tell.
As training camps kick into high gear, there are plenty of intriguing storylines to keep an eye on across the league. From potential trades to the emergence of young talent, the drama is just beginning to unfold.
The Anaheim Ducks find themselves at a crossroads, with trade rumors swirling around Cam Fowler and other key players. Will major changes be on the horizon for the Ducks as they gear up for the new season? The winds of change may be blowing in Anaheim.
In Calgary, the Flames’ youth movement has fans buzzing with excitement. Can budding stars like Connor Zary and Martin Pospisil step up and make a name for themselves this season? The future looks bright for the Flames if their young talent can deliver on the ice.
Over in Chicago, the Blackhawks have undergone significant roster changes in the offseason. With a slew of veterans joining the team, the younger players may find themselves starting the season in the AHL. The Rockford IceHogs could be bursting at the seams with promising prospects ready to make their mark.
The Colorado Avalanche face questions about the health of their forward group as they gear up for training camp. Can key players like Gabriel Landeskog and Artturi Lehkonen bounce back from injuries and make an impact on the ice? The Avalanche will be counting on their depth to step up in their absence.
In Columbus, the Blue Jackets are grappling with the tragic loss of Johnny Gaudreau. The emotional toll of his death hangs heavy over the team as they try to come to terms with the loss of a beloved teammate. The road ahead will be a difficult one for the Blue Jackets as they navigate their grief.
For the Dallas Stars, all eyes are on goaltender Jake Oettinger. After a rough season between the pipes, Oettinger is looking to bounce back and prove himself as the team’s go-to goalie. The pressure is on for Oettinger to show that last season was just a blip on the radar.
Defensive improvement is at the top of the agenda for the Detroit Red Wings as they head into training camp. With a focus on tightening up their defensive play, the Red Wings are looking to shut down opponents and limit scoring chances. The team will be relying on their forwards to step up and play a more balanced game this season.
In Los Angeles, the Kings face the challenge of replacing defenseman Matt Roy on the blue line. Roy’s departure leaves a void that the team will need to fill with up-and-coming talent like Brandt Clarke and Jordan Spence. The Kings will be looking to their young defensemen to step up and make an impact this season.
In Minnesota, the Wild are considering carrying three goalies as they look to maximize their goaltending depth. With the re-signing of veteran Marc-André Fleury and the emergence of young talent like Jesper Wallstedt, the Wild are exploring their options in net. General manager Bill Guerin is prepared for a “hybrid” season that may see the team juggling multiple goaltenders to ensure they have depth at the position.
As the new NHL season gets underway, the excitement is building and the questions are swirling. From contract negotiations to roster moves, each team faces its own unique challenges and opportunities. Fans can’t wait to see how it all unfolds on the ice.
