The 2024-25 NHL season has reached its midway mark, and while some preseason predictions have held up, others have been turned completely. Playoff races are heating up, star players are making their marks, and a few unexpected teams are shaking up the standings. The race for the Stanley Cup remains open. With just a few months left until the postseason, let’s check up on the major stories, surprises, and award contenders for the season so far.
Trades:
The biggest move of the season so far saw Mikko Rantanen and Taylor Hall landing Carolina as a part of a three-way trade with Colorado acquiring Martin Necas and Chicago retaining a part of Rantanen’s salary. The Rangers made a splash by re-acquiring JT Miller from Vancouver following recent drama within the Canucks’ locker room. While it has not been officially confirmed, fans are certain the growing tension between Miller and Elias Pettersson was a leading factor in the trade- especially after Canuck’s president Jim Rutherford admitted, “There’s not a good solution that would keep this group together.” Rangers also traded their captain, Jacob Trouba, to Anaheim after a slow start to the season.
Western Conference:
Central:
Dallas continues to dominate in the Central, proving themselves to be one of the most balanced teams in the NHL with strong goaltending and an impressive roster. Colorado remains a top contender, driven by Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar, but injuries have slowed them down at times. Nashville has been a surprise, with veterans like Stamkos and Marchessault stepping up to push them into the playoff mix. Winnipeg leans on Connor Hellebuyck’s elite goaltending, but their offense hasn’t exactly been groundbreaking. St. Louis and Minnesota are struggling with defensive instabilities, keeping them on the outside of the playoff picture. Meanwhile, Utah has had its ups and downs in its inaugural season but has shown some promise with veterans like Clayton Keller keeping them a team to watch in the upcoming years.
Pacific:
The Oilers stand at the top currently, with McDavid and Draisaitl continuing to lead one of the most dangerous offenses in the league. However, goaltending has been a growing concern and if Stuart Skinner can’t find consistency, it might cost them in the playoffs. Las Vegas is close behind Edmonton and has shown its depth and experience in order to stay relevant. Vancouver has cooled off after a hot start but still remains in the playoff hunt, though their off-ice drama has been an unwanted distraction. Los Angeles and Calgary are fighting to stay in the mix and have some hope, but still have consistency issues. Seattle, Anaheim, and San Jose are likely out of the race, with all three teams focusing on development rather than postseason contention.
Eastern Conference:
Metropolitan:
The Washington Capitals have been the biggest surprise of the season, sitting atop the Metropolitan division and Ovechkin within reach of breaking Gretzky’s 894 career goals record. Carolina remains a strong contender with their aggressive, fast-paced style, and New Jersey has bounced back from last season’s disappointment thanks to improved defense and goaltending from Jacob Markstrom. The Rangers’ season has been interesting, with major trades shaking up the roster and unsteady performances keeping them from climbing higher in the standings. Columbus, the Islanders, Pittsburgh, and Philadelphia are all battling for a potential wild-card spot, but each team’s glaring weaknesses- lack of scoring, shaky defense, inconsistent goaltending- could be holding them back from any hopes in seeing the postseason.
Atlantic:
The Florida Panthers, fresh off their Stanley Cup win, remain atop of the Atlantic. Their defense has been solid, and their key offensive players have stepped up. The star-studded Maple Leafs are not far behind, though their defense has seen some inconsistencies that have held them back in key moments. The Senators have been a pleasant surprise and hopefully, their continued development will help them push for a playoff spot. Tampa Bay has unfortunately seen quite a few injuries to key players, but their veteran leaders have been consistent in winning games. Boston hasn’t lived up to their full potential this season, with a lacking defense and scoring droughts. Detroit, Montreal, and Buffalo sit at the bottom of the conference, but if any of them could string together a strong second half, they could sneak into a wild-card spot.
Award Contenders:
Hart Trophy (MVP):
Connor McDavid, as expected, remains the best player in the league, even after serving his controversial three game suspension. Nathan MacKinnon has proved to be a dominant force for the Avalanche, even with injuries slowing the team down. Alex Ovechkin’s historic chase for Wayne Gretzky’s goal record has coincided with the Capitals resurgence.
Vezina Trophy (Best Goaltender):
Connor Hellebuyck has been a brick wall for Winnipeg, keeping them in the playoff mix. Jake Oettinger is a key reason why Dallas is in the lead in the Central. Igor Shesterkin continues to also be a game-changer for the Rangers.
Calder Trophy (Best Rookie):
Macklin Celebrini’s exceptional performance with San Jose has been a significant highlight in an otherwise disappointing season for the team, making him a top contender. Matvei Michkov’s offensive production has made him quite the standout in this rookie class. Shane Wright has given more responsibility in Seattle and is delivering solid results. Cutter Gauthier has been a bright spot for Anaheim, despite the drama with Philadelphia.
Norris Trophy (Best Defenseman):
Cale Makar continues to be one of the league’s best defensemen. Zach Werenski has had another excellent season so far being an anchor for the Capital’s blue line. Quinn Hughes is a great two-way force even as Vancouver has been seeing some struggles.