A veteran analyst delivers the first installment of his NHL Power Rankings for the upcoming season, offering an early assessment of team dynamics following a transformative offseason. The breakdown examines how roster moves, free-agent acquisitions, and draft picks could reshape the league’s competitive landscape. Fans and pundits alike will find insights into which squads may have gained ground—or fallen behind—after months of high-stakes transactions. Whether you’re a die-hard follower or a casual observer, this ranking provides a sharp snapshot of where each franchise stands heading into 2026-27.

Jason Chen is kicking off his weekly NHL Power Rankings series for the 2026-27 season with an early look at how each team stacks up after a busy summer.