The early stretch of the 2026-27 NHL season has already reshaped power rankings after a high-profile trade sent goalie Connor Hellebuyck to the New Jersey Devils, sparking shifts in team valuations. Analyst Jason Chen’s weekly assessments reflect the immediate impact of the move, as rosters realign and competitive dynamics take shape. With the first month nearly in the books, the trade’s ripple effects on playoff positioning and divisional races are becoming clearer. Fans and analysts alike will want to see how the Devils’ new addition stacks up against other top-tier goalies as the season progresses.

The first month of the 2026-27 NHL season is nearly complete, and Connor Hellebuyck's trade to the New Jersey Devils has led to some massive changes around Jason Chen's weekly power rankings.