As the NHL season gets ready to kick off, players from all across the league are gearing up and preparing for their shot at breaking out and making a name for themselves in the 2024-25 season.
Every year, hopeful players arrive at training camps with dreams of making the team, becoming regular starters, or earning a spot on a scoring line. It’s a time of optimism and opportunity, where anything can happen.
With fantasy drafts around the corner and excitement building, the question looms: who will be the breakout stars of the upcoming season? The experts at The Athletic reached out to their NHL staff to get their predictions, with each person selecting one breakout candidate for each team.
Jack Quinn, a right winger for the Buffalo Sabres, is primed for a big season after battling injuries last year. Matthew Fairburn notes that Quinn was fifth in the NHL in points per 60 minutes at five-on-five last season and is now fully healthy, ready to make a significant impact for the team.
Pyotr Kochetkov, goaltender for the Carolina Hurricanes, is in his second year of a four-year extension and is poised to step up as a key player for the team. Cory Lavalette explains that with Frederik Andersen’s contract coming to an end, Kochetkov has the opportunity to prove himself as a top goalie for the Hurricanes.
Lukas Reichel, a right winger for the Chicago Blackhawks, is looking to make a bigger impact this season after falling short of expectations last year. Scott Powers highlights that Reichel will likely get a chance to shine in a top-six role right from the start of the season.
Justus Annunen, goaltender for the New York Rangers, is expected to see more playing time this season after impressing in limited starts last year. Jesse Granger points out that Annunen’s strong performance in his limited appearances last season proves he has what it takes to handle a heavier workload.
Adam Fantilli, center for the Columbus Blue Jackets, is coming off a season-ending injury last year but is ready to make his mark this season. Aaron Portzline notes that Fantilli has been practicing with top-line players in camp and is expected to play a key role for the team.
Mavrik Bourque, center for the Dallas Stars, is set to capitalize on his success in the AHL and make an impact in the NHL this season. Mark Lazerus highlights that Bourque will likely slot into a top-nine role for the Stars and has the opportunity to showcase his scoring abilities.
Mackie Samoskevich, a right winger for the Stanley Cup champion Tampa Bay Lightning, is a player to watch as he aims to bring some offensive firepower to the team. Sean Gentille cautions that Samoskevich’s size and injury history may be a concern but his scoring prowess could be a valuable asset.
Brandt Clarke, defenseman for the Los Angeles Kings, is looking to have a breakout season with the team this year. Eric Stephens points out that Clarke may see increased playing time due to injuries on the blue line, presenting him with an opportunity to step up and prove himself.
As the new season approaches, these players are ready to seize the moment and make their mark on the NHL. Stay tuned to see who will rise to the occasion and become the breakout stars of 2024-25.
