Every NHL season is a fresh slate filled with unexpected turns, and the 2024 season is already delivering its share of surprises. Teams anticipated to glide into the playoffs are faltering, while others are surpassing all expectations, setting up an intriguing narrative as the season progresses.
Utah's Meteoric Rise
Perhaps no team embodies this unpredictability more than Utah. Historically marred by relocation rumors, Utah's recent moves in the 2024 NHL Draft have set the stage for a promising future. Key acquisitions like defenseman Mikhail Sergachev from the Tampa Bay Lightning, John Marino from the New Jersey Devils, and Sean Durzi have significantly bolstered Utah's defensive capabilities.
Offensively, Utah is blessed with burgeoning talent. Clayton Keller is coming off an impressive 76-point campaign during the 2023-24 season. Youngster Logan Cooley, the No. 3 overall pick in 2022, followed a solid rookie season with 20 goals and 44 points, showing immense promise. Dylan Guenther, the No. 9 overall pick in 2021, contributed 35 points in 45 games, and with Matias Maccelli at just 24 years old, the future looks bright for Utah.
Between the pipes, Connor Ingram has been a revelation. His ability to save 5.05 goals above average last season and maintain a high-danger save percentage of .841 were instrumental in providing stability at the back. With these talents in their arsenal, Utah is defying expectations and rapidly emerging as a formidable contender.
Buffalo's Long-Awaited Playoff Push
The Buffalo Sabres, meanwhile, are gunning for their first playoff appearance since 2011. The team boasts a rejuvenated roster marked by solid individual performances last season. Alex Tuch had a productive year with 22 goals and 37 assists, while Tage Thompson added 56 points in 71 games.
Young forward JJ Peterka was a standout, reaching the 28-goal mark and tallying 50 points at just 22 years old. Jack Quinn, picked eighth overall in 2020, showed promise with 14 goals in his rookie season in 2022-23. To add to their defensive depth, the Sabres secured Bowen Byram, which should help solidify their back line.
Goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukonen has been a key player, saving 10.1 goals above average last season. His performance will be crucial if Buffalo hopes to end its long playoff drought.
Emerging Stars in Montreal
In Montreal, the dynamics are shifting favorably. Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield combined for an impressive 61 goals and 81 assists last season. At 24 and 23 years old, respectively, they are stepping into their primes and should continue to lead the Canadiens' offensive charge. Juraj Slafkovsky also made significant contributions with 20 goals and 30 assists, further showcasing the team's bright future.
Defensively, Lane Hutson made his NHL debut last season, playing two games. His collegiate career at Boston University, where he amassed 97 points in 77 games, hints at his high potential. Expect Hutson to become a regular fixture in Montreal’s lineup as he adapts to the NHL rigors.
Concerns in Columbus and Optimism in Minnesota
Not all teams have had the best start to the season. In Columbus, Patrik Laine’s significant knee injury suffered in a preseason game has dampened spirits. Laine's absence is a big blow to a team that was looking to turn things around this season.
In Minnesota, however, there’s palpable optimism. Matt Boldy has been a consistent performer, recording 75 goals and 96 points in 203 NHL games. Boldy has maintained a 30-goal pace over the last two seasons, making him a cornerstone of the Wild’s offense. Marco Rossi, in his first full season, totaled 40 points and played the second-most five-on-five minutes of any Wild forward. Rossi's control of 52.9% of expected goals during five-on-five play underscores his effectiveness in critical situations.
A Season to Watch
The 2024 NHL season is rife with compelling storylines and dynamic shifts. From the unexpected rise of Utah and Buffalo's playoff ambitions to the budding stars in Montreal and the steady hands in Minnesota, fans have plenty to be excited about. As the season unfolds, the ever-changing landscape ensures that the excitement is far from over.