Greg Wyshynski argues that the first month of the NHL season deserves serious attention, since six of the eight Western playoff teams from last season were already in playoff spots last Halloween. He offers 10 overreactions to the 2026-27 start, beginning with Connor McDavid's pursuit of a record.
McDavid already has 34 points through 12 games, a pace of 2.83 points per game that would project to roughly 204 points and shatter Wayne Gretzky's single-season record of 215 points (1985-86) if sustained. Wyshynski labels the idea an overreaction, though he admits it would be incredible for hockey. Reasons to believe include McDavid and Leon Draisaitl playing extended time together at even strength, a setup that has produced strong results. Reasons to doubt include the fact that the highest point total this century is McDavid's 153 in 2022-23, and that he has exceeded 80 games in only three of the last five seasons.
The column also touches on Evan Bouchard's chances at the Norris Trophy. Wyshynski notes that winners usually need to be in contention for a season or two first, and that offensive production is typically a key factor. Bouchard finished fifth in 2024 and fourth last season.
Wyshynski's broader point is that early-season narratives are not always noise. Many contenders are established in October, even if some hot starts, like Vancouver's Paul Cotter scoring four goals in the first four games, fade by season's end.
Source: ESPN NHL · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing