Several National Hockey League teams are projected to face challenges in the upcoming season, with analysts pointing to roster changes, contract decisions, and organizational shifts as key factors. Teams that may struggle include those dealing with significant player departures or financial constraints that limit their ability to retain top talent. The focus is on how these teams could drop in performance rankings due to weakened lineups or coaching adjustments. Insights into these potential declines offer a glimpse into the league’s evolving competitive landscape.

Why these 6 NHL teams are most likely to take a step backward in the 2026-27 season  The New York Times