The puck has dropped on the 2024-25 NHL season, and the first quarter has already delivered its fair share of triumphs, disappointments, and eyebrow-raising moments. As teams jockey for position in the standings, let’s take a timeout to recognize the top performers, biggest surprises, and most head-scratching plays that have defined the season so far.
Wyshynski’s MVP: Kirill Kaprizov, Minnesota Wild
While several stars have shined bright, none have illuminated the ice quite like Kirill Kaprizov. The electric winger has been the engine powering the Wild’s torrid start, leading the league in points while dazzling with his creativity and clutch scoring. According to those close to the team, Kaprizov’s tireless work ethic and infectious love for the game have elevated his play to new heights.
Honorable mentions: Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl
Biggest Team Surprise: Winnipeg Jets
Propelled by Connor Hellebuyck’s stellar goaltending and a potent offense, the Jets have rocketed to the top of the standings. Under new head coach Scott Arniel, Winnipeg has found a winning formula, leading the league in goals per game while surrendering the second-fewest. Insiders credit the team’s renewed focus and hunger after last season’s playoff disappointment for fueling their impressive start.
Most Disappointing Team: Nashville Predators
Despite landing prized free agents like Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault, the Predators find themselves in a tailspin. Mired in last place in goals per game, tensions have reportedly boiled over, with Stamkos calling out his teammates’ effort. Chemistry issues and a failure to meet lofty expectations have Nashville facing tough questions about their future.
Best Goal: Evan Bouchard’s Coast-to-Coast Rush
The Oilers defenseman turned on the jets, blazing through the neutral zone and undressing the Senators’ defense before roofing a pinpoint shot. Bouchard’s end-to-end rush showcased his elite skating and scoring touch, cementing it as an early candidate for goal of the year.
Weirdest Goal: Leon Draisaitl’s Long-Distance Lob
In a comedy of errors, Draisaitl’s dump-in from the far blue line eluded teammates, defenders, and ultimately, a befuddled Marc-Andre Fleury, who inadvertently batted the bouncing puck into his own net. The fluke tally left the veteran netminder shaking his head and had teammates stifling laughter on the bench.
Boldest Coaching Move: Jim Montgomery’s Quick Hire
Just five days after being fired by Boston, Montgomery found himself back behind an NHL bench with the Blues. St. Louis GM Doug Armstrong wasted no time in scooping up the free agent coach, inking him to a five-year deal and signaling the end of the line for short-lived bench boss Drew Bannister after just 22 games.
Worst Coaching Gaffe: Andrew Brunette’s Lineup Mix-up
The Predators found themselves shorthanded before the puck even dropped after Brunette accidentally submitted the wrong starting lineup. The rare infraction of Rule 7 had Nashville scrambling and prompted Brunette to sheepishly explain the mixup, providing a moment of levity in an otherwise frustrating season.
Juiciest Trade Rumor: Rangers Open for Business
With his team underperforming, GM Chris Drury reportedly took the unusual step of sending out a memo to other GMs saying all players were available – including core veterans Jacob Trouba and Chris Kreider. Whether it’s a sincere invitation to deal or a motivational ploy, the Rangers appear primed for a shakeup.
Burning Questions for the Next Quarter
- Can the Bruins right the ship under interim coach Joe Sacco?
- How will snubs from the upcoming 4 Nations Face-Off tournament impact players’ motivation?
- Which Western Conference contender will emerge as the team to beat?
As the season marches on, expect more twists, turns, and unforeseen storylines to emerge. But for now, these are the players, teams, and moments that have defined the first quarter and set the stage for an intriguing road ahead in the 2024-25 NHL campaign.
