The puck is set to drop on the 2025-26 NHL campaign in less than a month, with the initial preparations for the new season already in full swing.
Throughout the league, a new generation of players is gathering, eager to make their mark, exceed expectations, and secure life-changing opportunities in the top league. This week also sees veterans reporting to camp, as all 32 teams reconvene with a fresh start and ambitious goals.
However, numerous decisions still need to be finalized before the official games commence on October 7th.
There are coveted roster positions to be won, optimal line pairings to establish, and crucial roles to be earned. With these dynamics in mind, let’s delve into some significant storylines expected to develop across the league as training camps progress.
Edmonton Oilers: Who Secures Top-Six Spots Alongside McDavid and Draisaitl?
Edmonton is currently grappling with a multitude of pressing questions, none more critical than whether captain Connor McDavid will commit long-term to the Oilers` vision, or if he`s considering a future elsewhere. Regardless of his eventual decision, the immediate concern for this season is determining which players will skate on his wing.
After reaching the Stanley Cup Final for the second consecutive year – and losing both times to the Florida Panthers – the Oilers approach the 2025-26 season with a noticeably different offensive roster. Four experienced forwards have departed, while Andrew Mangiapane is the sole addition. Several young prospects are expected to contend for spots and mature into regular NHL players, with Michigan State talent Ike Howard leading this group. High hopes also rest on Matthew Savoie, the ninth overall pick from 2022, acquired last year from the Buffalo Sabres. Furthermore, Zach Hyman is anticipated to rejoin the lineup at some point, though he is still recovering from injury.
In June, with their season hanging in the balance, head coach Kris Knoblauch deployed Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Corey Perry alongside McDavid, while Evander Kane and Kasperi Kapanen flanked Leon Draisaitl. Two of these four key players are no longer with the team. With considerable pressure mounting and McDavid’s future a significant talking point, the question remains: who will step up and fill these vital roles this season?
