An inside look into the NHL: Who will surprise us?

The 2017-2018 NHL season has begun and given us many exciting games. We’ve seen a dominant performance by the Washington Capitals, the return of elite Jonathan Toews, and the start of the John Tavares era in Toronto. One of the most exciting things about a new NHL season is the teams that shock us by making the playoffs after a disappointing season the year before. Last year, very few people predicted the Winnipeg Jets, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Vegas Golden Knights to even make the playoffs, but all three made it to at least the Conference Finals. There are three teams that I believe can surprise us this year.

There’s all this talk about the Chicago Blackhawks dynasty being over, as Patrick Kane, Johnathan Toews, and Duncan Keith will all soon be on the wrong side of 30 years old. There’s also uncertainty to whether Corey Crawford can return to elite form after being plagued with injuries last season. However, I feel that all of these guys can still perform. Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane have proven that on the ice so far. Opponents will also fear the young Alex DeBrincat as he poses a threat to be a 30+ goal scorer this season. They lack much depth on the defensive core, but not many teams are going to be able to keep up with them offensively this season.

Sticking in the Western Conference, the next team that could emerge into a good team is the Calgary Flames. Last season, the Flames started off somewhat hot, but fell off and ultimately missed the playoffs. During the offseason, the Flames were one of the most active teams, making a major trade with the Carolina Hurricanes, and signing James Neal during free agency. The trade with the Hurricanes brought in two pieces with major potential: Winger Elias Lindholm, and Defenseman Noah Hanifin. Neither player was able to fulfill their potential while in Carolina, but with Calgary playing better as a team, I think both guys can be solid players with major roles on the team. Johnny Gaudreau, Sean Monahan, and Matthew Tkachuck are all likely to have 60+ points (I expect 80+ for Gaudreau and Monahan). They’ve proven they can play with the best as they beat the Nashville Predators 3-0 Tuesday night.

The one team that I think can break through in the Eastern Conference is the Florida Panthers. Last season, the Panthers went on an insane surge of 5 straight wins to end the campaign. However, they fell a whole 1 point short of a playoff spot as they were beat out a a New Jersey Devils team that lacked depth, and the inconsistent Columbus Blue Jackets. This year, they have 6 forwards who are likely to post 50+ points this season. They also have a very solid defensive core, and Roberto Luongo in net. The roster is built to play deep into April, and maybe even May/June.  They are one of the most complete teams in the NHL.

I think the Blackhawks will overtake the Colorado Avalanche, the Flames will pass the LA Kings, and the Panthers will jump the New Jersey Devils for playoff spots this season. I could even see Florida and Calgary going on deep runs in the playoffs. What team do you see surprising us this season? Reply below!