New Jersey Devils
The Devils were arguably the most disappointing team in hockey last season, falling to 81 points from their previous total of 112. While they are still expected to compete for a playoff spot in the 2024-25 season, they’re no longer widely considered true contenders. That said, New Jersey still possesses enough talent to remain in that conversation.
The major offseason move for the Devils was acquiring All-Star-caliber goaltender Jacob Markstrom, who should address several of the team’s issues. In addition, they added veteran defenseman Brett Pesce to bolster their blue line. New Jersey also made a coaching change, hiring Sheldon Keefe. Despite criticism during his tenure in Toronto, Keefe’s career record stands at an impressive 212-97-40.
Detroit Red Wings
The Red Wings fell short of the playoffs in 2023-24, but they have the potential to surprise many this season. Despite lacking significant big-game experience beyond a few players, last season’s struggles could benefit them moving forward. Detroit re-signed Patrick Kane and brought in Vladimir Tarasenko, a two-time Stanley Cup champion, whose leadership will be crucial for this young team.
Lucas Raymond, 22, is coming off a breakout season with 31 goals, and expectations are high for his continued development. If he continues to rise, a line featuring Raymond, Alex DeBrincat, and Dylan Larkin could be lethal. The defense should also see improvement with former top-10 pick Simon Edvinsson stepping into a more prominent role. Moritz Seider, the 2021-22 Calder Trophy winner, hasn’t fully built on his rookie success, but he still has the potential to become a top NHL defenseman.
Utah Hockey Club
Salt Lake City will be buzzing with hockey excitement as the relocated team settles in, and they might perform better than expected. Although the Arizona Coyotes were the fourth-worst team in the Western Conference, a move to a new city could provide the team with a fresh spark. We’ve seen it before—the Vegas Golden Knights made it to the Stanley Cup Final in 2018, and the Seattle Kraken achieved a 100-point season in their second year. While Utah isn’t an expansion team, a relocation boost isn’t out of the question.
This wouldn’t be all luck, though, as general manager Bill Armstrong made significant moves to overhaul the defense. The additions of Mikhail Sergachev, John Marino, and Ian Cole should greatly help a team that allowed the eighth-most shots in the league last season.
These are three NHL teams with the potential to overachieve in the 2024-25 season
