A new series on TheHockeyNews.com examines the defining challenges facing NHL teams as they prepare for the 2026-27 campaign, with a spotlight on the Metropolitan Division. Each installment highlights a critical question that could shape a team’s trajectory in the coming season, offering fans and analysts a deeper look at the pressures and possibilities ahead. The focus on division-specific dynamics suggests a closer analysis of competitive positioning and strategic priorities. For hockey followers, this breakdown could provide fresh perspective on how teams might navigate the evolving landscape of the league.

As part of a short series on TheHockeyNews.com, we're identifying a key question for each NHL team heading into the 2026-27 season. In this file, we're focused on the Metropolitan Division teams.