Every NHL season brings its own set of surprises, and the 2024 season is no exception. Teams that seemed like surefire playoff contenders are now struggling, while others, like the newly bolstered Utah team, are defying all expectations with significant acquisitions and promising young talent.
Utah's Strong Start
The Utah team made headlines during the 2024 NHL Draft with substantial moves to strengthen their roster. Acquiring defenseman Mikhail Sergachev from the Tampa Bay Lightning was a pivotal moment, enhancing their defensive capabilities. Additionally, Utah landed John Marino from the New Jersey Devils and integrated Sean Durzi into their defensive corps, indicating a clear strategy to solidify their backline.
Complementing these defensive acquisitions, Utah's offensive talents are also making waves. Clayton Keller, coming off a 76-point campaign during the 2023-24 season, continues to be a key player. Logan Cooley, the No. 3 overall pick in 2022, had a solid rookie season with 20 goals and 44 points. The youthful energy is further evident with Dylan Guenther, the No. 9 overall pick in 2021, who tallied 35 points in just 45 games. Matias Maccelli, at 24 years old, adds depth to the squad's youthful vigor.
In goal, Connor Ingram's performance has been spectacular. Saving 5.05 goals above average last season and maintaining a high-danger save percentage of .841 showcases his reliability and skill between the pipes. With such talents and the end of persistent relocation rumors, Utah appears poised for a promising future.
Buffalo Sabres' Playoff Drought
The Buffalo Sabres have not tasted playoff action since 2011, but there's cautious optimism around the team this season. Alex Tuch had a productive season with 22 goals and 37 assists, while Tage Thompson scored 56 points in 71 games last season. Adding to their offensive arsenal, 22-year-old JJ Peterka reached the 28-goal mark and notched 50 points last season, demonstrating his growing importance to the team.
Jack Quinn, the No. 8 overall pick in 2020, had 14 goals in his rookie season in 2022-23, showing potential for further development. The addition of Bowen Byram to the Sabres is expected to shore up their defense, providing a much-needed boost. Between the posts, Ukko-Pekka Luukonen saved 10.1 goals above average last season, indicating his critical role in the Sabres' defensive setup.
Montreal Canadiens: Young Stars Stepping Up
Montreal Canadiens' young stars are coming into their own. Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield combined for 61 goals and 81 assists last season, a testament to their blossoming partnership. At 24 and 23 years old, respectively, they are expected to continue growing. Juraj Slafkovsky, another emerging talent, contributed 20 goals and 30 assists last season, adding to Montreal’s offensive depth.
Lane Hutson, who made his debut last season playing two games, amassed 97 points in 77 games during his collegiate career at Boston University. His transition to the NHL is highly anticipated, and fans are eager to see how his collegiate success translates to the professional stage.
Challenges and Triumphs Across the League
Despite the promising developments, some teams face unexpected challenges. For instance, Patrik Laine suffered a significant knee injury in a preseason game, a setback that could impact his team's performance. On the flip side, players like Matt Boldy of the Minnesota Wild have been consistently impressive. Boldy has recorded 75 goals and 96 points in 203 NHL games, maintaining a 30-goal pace over the last two seasons.
Marco Rossi is another bright spot for the Wild. In his first full season, Rossi totaled 40 points and played the second-most five-on-five minutes of any Wild forward, controlling 52.9% of expected goals during five-on-five play last season. His contributions will be crucial as the Wild strive to capitalize on his potential.
The 2024 NHL season is unfolding with plenty of storylines to watch, from rising stars and significant trades to teams trying to end long playoff droughts. Fans have much to be excited about as the action continues to heat up.