The National Hockey League will be here before we know it. We expect a great season on ice as the Vegas Golden Knights are looking to defend their Stanley Cup title. Let’s take a look at an Early Season Outlook for the National Hockey League:
Let’s start in the Eastern Conference. A season ago, the Boston Bruins were the best in the regular season but lost in the first round of the postseason. The Florida Panthers were the surprise team in the Eastern Conference, heading all the way to the Stanley Cup Finals.
View the 2022 NHL Standings here
NHL – Atlantic Division 2023 – Outlook
Boston Bruins +325
They were the best team by far in the regular season a year ago. The Bruins may want to take a look at pacing heading into the 2023-2024 season. Many felt they looked out of gas once the postseason came around in their series loss. The Bruins took a step back a little with the loss of Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci.
Toronto Maple Leafs +250
Folks in Toronto were not happy with the silence of the off-season for the Maple Leafs. After winning a playoff round, the Maple Leafs did not shake things up much. Max Domi is a solid move, but more was needed.
Tampa Bay Lightning +475
This is certainly a team with an aging core. Is their title run over? We will find out early in the season. Tampa Bay let Ross Colton, Alex Killon, Pat Maroon, and Corey Perry all go. They did bring back Anthony Cirrelli, but their roster does not look as good as it did a season ago.
Florida Panthers +475
This is a team that went to the Stanley Cup Finals a season ago. Now, the Panthers will start the season without both Aaron Ekblad and Brandon Montour, as well as losing Radko Gudas and Marc Staal to free agency. Sending Anthony Ducalir to San Jose certainly didn’t win over fans, but Matthew Tkachuk on your team makes any team solid.
Buffalo Sabres +900
It’s still hard to buy stock in this team. Despite the excitement, especially Tage Thompson brings, the loss of Jack Quinn is going to be a big one. Buffalo did not add much veteran help, something the team needed and still needs.
Ottawa Senators +1100
Dominik Kubalik coming over from Detroit was a big addition. Then Vladimir Tarasenko signing the one-year deal was a great addition. Lastly, Joonas Korpisalo signing for five years is a nice addition. The Senators could be relevant!
Detroit Red Wings +1600
The addition of Alex DeBrincat and Kilm Kostin will make them more ready for postseason contention.
Montreal Canadiens +6600
The Canadiens are looking for more from Kirby Dach and Alex Newhook, a couple of youngsters this season. This should be an interesting season for the Canadiens, but they are still probably behind the eight-ball for the postseason.
*Prices subject to fluctuation.
There you have it. That’s a quick look at all the teams in the NHL Atlantic Division 2023. Enjoy the season, and best of luck!
