NHL Power Rankings: Jets Soar, Plus What Every Team is Thankful For
As the 2024-25 NHL season rolls into its second calendar month, we’re also inching closer to the infamous “Thanksgiving playoff cutoff” season. Hockey fans, it’s time to get your playoff predictions ready because history tells us that over 75% of teams in a playoff position by American Thanksgiving have gone on to secure a postseason spot in the last decade. That’s a pretty solid trend, and it’s great news for teams like the Carolina Hurricanes, Washington Capitals, and Minnesota Wild, who were largely dismissed as playoff contenders at the start of the season but are now proving doubters wrong.
But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. The Thanksgiving marker doesn’t influence our ESPN NHL Power Rankings, where the Winnipeg Jets continue to reign supreme. This week, we’re not just updating the rankings; we’re also spotlighting what each team is most thankful for this season. Whether it’s a standout player, a surprising trend, or even a piece of hockey equipment, there’s plenty to celebrate across the league.
How we rank: A panel of ESPN hockey commentators, analysts, reporters, and editors submits a 1-32 poll based on games through Wednesday, creating our master list.
Note: Previous rankings refer to the Nov. 15 edition, and points percentages are through Thursday’s games.
1. Winnipeg Jets
Previous ranking: 1
Points percentage: 84.21%
Thankful for: A counterpunch. The Jets have been the talk of the league with their best start in franchise history. However, they hit a bump with a 5-0 loss to the Panthers, where fans chanted “overrated.” But Winnipeg bounced back in style, winning the rematch 6-3 after going up 3-0 early. That’s the kind of resilience that keeps them at the top of the rankings.
Next seven days: @ PIT (Nov. 22), @ NSH (Nov. 23), @ MIN (Nov. 25), @ LA (Nov. 27)
2. Carolina Hurricanes
Previous ranking: 2
Points percentage: 73.68%
Thankful for: A 13-game point streak for Martin Necas. The Canes are proving preseason doubters wrong, sitting second in the Metro Division. Necas has been a quiet force, racking up 27 points during his streak and going pointless in only three games this season. From trade rumors to a breakout season, Necas is a story worth celebrating.
Next seven days: @ CBJ (Nov. 23), vs. DAL (Nov. 25), vs. NYR (Nov. 27)
3. Minnesota Wild
Previous ranking: 4
Points percentage: 76.32%
Thankful for: The protective cup. Yes, you read that right. Mats Zuccarello suffered a ruptured testicle after taking a puck to the groin, but thanks to his cup, he avoided losing a “nut,” as teammate Marcus Foligno humorously explained on a local radio show. Hockey players are tough, and Zuccarello’s story is a wild reminder of that.
Next seven days: @ CGY (Nov. 23), vs. WPG (Nov. 25), @ BUF (Nov. 27)
4. Washington Capitals
Previous ranking: 5
Points percentage: 71.05%
Thankful for: It’s only “week to week.” Alex Ovechkin is off to a blistering start with 15 goals in 18 games, putting him just 26 goals away from Wayne Gretzky’s all-time record. However, a collision left him sidelined with a leg injury. Thankfully, he’s expected back in 4-6 weeks, keeping the record chase alive.
Next seven days: vs. NJ (Nov. 23), @ FLA (Nov. 25), @ TB (Nov. 27)
5. Florida Panthers
Previous ranking: 3
Points percentage: 62.50%
Thankful for: No Stanley Cup hangover. The Panthers are proving last season’s success was no fluke, starting 12-6-1. Sam Reinhart is tied for the league lead in goals with 15 and is on pace for a career-high 62 goals.
Next seven days: vs. COL (Nov. 23), vs. WSH (Nov. 25), vs. TOR (Nov. 27)
6. New York Rangers
Previous ranking: 6
Points percentage: 69.44%
Thankful for: The best goalie tandem in the league. Backup Jonathan Quick has been stellar with a .970 save percentage, while franchise goalie Igor Shesterkin continues to shine with a .914 save percentage.
Next seven days: @ EDM (Nov. 23), vs. STL (Nov. 25), @ CAR (Nov. 27)
For the full rankings and what every team is thankful for, check out the complete list above. From standout players to quirky moments, there’s no shortage of reasons to celebrate this NHL season!
Originally Written by: Kristen Shilton
