Greg Wyshynski, ESPN's senior NHL writer, breaks down the key storylines for the 2026-27 NHL season. The Carolina Hurricanes enter as defending champions after defeating the Vegas Golden Knights, with Jaccob Slavin becoming just the second American-born player to win Olympic gold and the Stanley Cup in the same season. The Florida Panthers (+650) and Colorado Avalanche (+700) are among the top Stanley Cup favorites, alongside the Edmonton Oilers (+800) led by Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. The offseason featured significant player movement, including Brady Tkachuk's trade to Florida and Connor Hellebuyck's ongoing request for a move from Winnipeg. The NHL continues to embrace player empowerment, with multiple trade demands shaping roster landscapes ahead of opening night.

The Hurricanes will attempt to become the fourth team in 11 seasons to repeat as champions, facing stiff competition from a Panthers team seeking redemption after missing the playoffs. In the West, the Avalanche finished with the league's best record last season, while the Oilers aim for their third Final appearance in four years.

Player movement dominated the offseason, with Brady Tkachuk finally joining the Panthers alongside his brother Matthew Tkachuk, and Connor Hellebuyck remaining in limbo with the Jets. Dylan Larkin also sought a trade from Detroit, highlighting the league's shift toward player agency.