Welcome to the inaugural installment of our NHL Power Rankings for the 2024-25 season, fueled by Sportlogiq data.
Every week, we delve into team results and underlying stats to shed light on why teams are positioned where they are in the standings, and to identify who is poised for success or slip in the rankings.
In terms of both process and outcomes, no team has shone brighter early in this season than the Winnipeg Jets, currently perched atop our rankings. The Jets boast a flawless record (5-0-0), making them the sole undefeated squad in the league. Their fans will undoubtedly be thrilled to hear that their stellar play seems sustainable.
Winnipeg leads the pack in goal differential per game and sits fifth in expected goal differential. The Jets flaunt the league’s lone power play operating at above 40 percent efficiency, while Connor Hellebuyck has been performing at a Vezina-worthy level. The Jets will strive to maintain their unblemished record as they kick off a three-game road swing, paying visits to St. Louis, Seattle, and Calgary.
Right on the Jets’ tails are the 4-0-1 Calgary Flames, occupying the third spot in our rankings. The Flames have defied expectations with their scorching start, receiving positive contributions from all corners of their lineup.
Calgary’s quality-focused strategy has paid off handsomely early on, as the Flames rank among the top 10 in high-danger scoring chances for and against, despite placing 25th in shot attempts for and 19th in shots against. A challenging week awaits the Flames on their home ice, with matchups against the Penguins, Hurricanes, and Jets on the docket.
The Toronto Maple Leafs make an entrance at number 10 on our list, following a 3-2-0 opening to the campaign. While Toronto’s offensive output has been middling, ranking 18th in goals per game and 27th on the power play, the team’s defensive fortitude and goaltending have been stellar.
The Leafs sit fifth in goals against per game and a remarkable third in goals saved above expected. Anthony Stolarz has been a standout between the pipes in his four starts, ranking among the top six in both goals against average and save percentage.
Meanwhile, their provincial foes, the Ottawa Senators, claim the 15th spot in our rankings, but they could very well climb higher in the next edition. The 3-2-0 Senators rank 20th in goal differential per game but a promising ninth in expected goal differential.
With Linus Ullmark still sidelined due to injury, the Senators eagerly await his return. Assuming he resumes playing at his customary level, Ottawa should witness a notable uptick in goal prevention. The Senators have managed to light the lamp frequently enough in his absence, ranking eighth in goals per game and flaunting the league’s second-most efficient power play.