The highly anticipated 2024-25 NHL season is finally underway, with teams battling it out on the ice to secure their positions in the standings. As the games progress, a clear picture is beginning to emerge, with only three teams yet to secure a win in the early stages of the season.
At the bottom of the standings sit the San Jose Sharks, a team that struggled last year and is off to a rough start this season with a record of 0-2-2. Just above them are the Nashville Predators and Colorado Avalanche, two teams with high expectations entering the season but facing early challenges.
The Predators made significant moves in the off-season, acquiring top talent including Steven Stamkos, Jonathan Marchessault, and Brady Skjei to complement their existing core players. However, their struggles on both ends of the ice have been evident, with a lack of scoring power and defensive lapses leading to disappointing results.
According to TSN Hockey Insider Pierre LeBrun, Predators GM Barry Trotz emphasized the importance of sticking to their identity as a team. “I think we’re trying to outscore our problems,” Trotz stated. “We can’t forget who we are. This is about remembering who they are and getting back to basics for Nashville.”
Meanwhile, the Avalanche have been dealing with lineup absences and defensive issues, allowing a league-high 25 goals against in the early going. Despite a strong offensive start from Cale Makar, the team has struggled to keep opponents off the scoreboard.
Makar, who has one goal and seven assists in four games, acknowledged his shortcomings in a recent interview. “I’m just not moving my feet, not playing my game,” Makar explained. “I’ve got to be better for these guys. It’s definitely a lot closer game if I don’t play tonight.”
As the season progresses, these struggling teams will look to turn things around and find their footing in a competitive league. Only time will tell if they can rise to the challenge and overcome their early-season struggles.