The Unpredictable 2024-25 NHL Season: A Midseason Review
The 2024-25 NHL season has been a rollercoaster ride, full of unexpected twists and turns. As we pass the midpoint of the campaign, it’s clear that some teams are defying expectations, while others are struggling to find their footing. But with plenty of hockey left to play, there’s still time for fortunes to change.
One thing is certain: this season has been a goal-scoring bonanza. Through 649 games, the NHL has averaged 6.1 goals per game, marking the fourth consecutive season with a scoring pace above six goals. This offensive explosion has added an element of unpredictability, with 44% of games featuring comeback wins, tying for the second-highest rate in history.
While the clarity of contenders may be lacking, the excitement of goal horns and scoreboard volatility has more than made up for it. With that in mind, let’s dive into 20 NHL awards and superlatives for the midpoint of the season:
Best Team: Winnipeg Jets
The Winnipeg Jets have emerged as the best team at this point in the season. They had the best start in NHL history with 15 wins in their first 16 games. Although they couldn’t maintain that blistering pace, they’ve settled into a solid position, leading the Central Division and ranking among the top three teams both offensively and defensively.
While there are areas for improvement, such as their 5-on-5 play, the Jets’ reliance on the league’s best power play has been a key factor in their success. Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck has been a dominant force, looking poised to become the first back-to-back Vezina Trophy winner since Martin Brodeur in 2006-07 and 2007-08.
Most Disappointing Team: Nashville Predators
The Nashville Predators have been a major disappointment this season. Despite adding stars like Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault, the team has struggled offensively, ranking among the NHL’s worst with just 2.47 goals per game. Players like Tommy Novak have seen their production plummet, and Nashville is last in the league in 5-on-5 goals after 43 games.
Despite their struggles, the Predators are not out of the playoff race just yet. A canceled trip to see U2 in Las Vegas last season sparked a rally, and they may need a similar boost to turn their season around.
Most Valuable Player: Leon Draisaitl
With Kirill Kaprizov sidelined by injury, Leon Draisaitl has emerged as the Hart Trophy favorite. His goal-scoring pace (31 goals in 43 games) ranks among the top 10 scoring seasons since 2005. Draisaitl leads the NHL in expected goals above replacement (25.9) and has added 4.3 wins to the Edmonton Oilers’ standings.
Shoutouts go to Nathan MacKinnon of the Colorado Avalanche and Quinn Hughes of the Vancouver Canucks, who have also been standout performers this season.
Least Valuable Player: Jeff Skinner
On the flip side, Jeff Skinner has struggled to make an impact with the Edmonton Oilers. The 32-year-old winger has just seven goals and eight assists in 40 games, skating an average of 12:36 per game. His defensive liabilities and lack of production have been disappointing for a player expected to thrive alongside stars like Draisaitl and Connor McDavid.
Greatest On-Ice Achievement: Alex Ovechkin
Alex Ovechkin is on a mission to break Wayne Gretzky’s career goals record (894). With 873 career goals, Ovechkin is just 21 goals shy of the record, thanks to an impressive 20 goals in 27 games this season. At 39 years old, Ovechkin is defying expectations and could shatter the record by the end of March, despite missing time due to injury.
Ovechkin’s 20th straight 20-goal season is a testament to his incredible scoring ability, trailing only Gordie Howe’s 22 seasons. His pursuit of the record has captivated fans and added another layer of excitement to the season.
Best Trend: The Rarity of Shootouts
Shootouts have become a rare occurrence this season, with 76.5% of games that went beyond regulation ending in 3-on-3 overtime. This is the highest rate of OT goals in NHL history, and it’s a trend that fans and players alike hope will continue.
Worst Trend: Deferred Money
Deferred money in player contracts has become a trend, with players like Jake McCabe, Seth Jarvis, and Frank Vatrano signing extensions that defer significant amounts of money. While this allows teams to manage their salary cap numbers, the NHL generally frowns upon such creative accounting practices.
Most Inspirational Story: Columbus Blue Jackets
The Columbus Blue Jackets have been an inspiring story this season, rallying in the wake of Johnny Gaudreau’s tragic death. The team has become a legitimate playoff contender, led by standout performances from Zach Werenski and Sean Monahan. Gaudreau’s memory continues to inspire his teammates, who have embraced his spirit and determination.
Most Important Rookie: Dustin Wolf
While Macklin Celebrini and Lane Hutson are leading the Calder Trophy race, Dustin Wolf has been the most important rookie for the Calgary Flames. With a 15-6-2 record, a .916 save percentage, and a 2.50 goals-against average, Wolf has been a key factor in keeping the Flames in the playoff hunt.
Most Forsaken Player: Connor Bedard
Connor Bedard’s second NHL season has been challenging, as the Chicago Blackhawks continue to struggle. Despite reaching 100 career points faster than any other teenage player in NHL history, Bedard’s frustration is evident. The Blackhawks’ roster remains thin, and Bedard is left to wonder when the team will provide him with the support he needs to succeed.
Goal of the (Half) Year: Nazem Kadri
Nazem Kadri’s incredible goal for the Calgary Flames in December was a sight to behold. The play showcased Kadri’s balance and athleticism as he leaped over a defender, executed a 360-degree turn, and scored against the Tampa Bay Lightning’s Andrei Vasilevskiy.
Save of the (Half) Year: Jacob Markstrom
Jacob Markstrom delivered two save-of-the-year candidates in a single game against the Seattle Kraken. His glove save on Eeli Tolvanen was impressive, but his hand-eye coordination on another save was a true masterpiece.
Coach of the (Half) Year: Spencer Carbery
Spencer Carbery has been a revelation for the Washington Capitals, guiding them to the top of the NHL standings despite missing Alex Ovechkin for 16 games. Carbery’s open-minded approach and ability to integrate young players and veterans have made him a strong candidate for the Jack Adams Award.
Best Glow-Up: Colorado Avalanche Goaltending
The Colorado Avalanche’s goaltending situation has undergone a remarkable transformation. After starting the season with a shaky trio, the team made bold moves to acquire Mackenzie Blackwood, who has excelled with a 9-2-1 record, a .938 save percentage, and a 1.89 goals-against average.
Most Shocking Move: The Jim Montgomery Migration
The firing of Jim Montgomery by the Boston Bruins was unexpected, but his swift hiring by the St. Louis Blues was even more surprising. Montgomery’s return to the Blues, where he previously served as an assistant coach, has added intrigue to the coaching carousel.
Most Ruthless Front Office: New York Rangers
The New York Rangers have shown a willingness to make bold moves to address their issues. From using waivers to force trades to listing veteran players as available, the Rangers’ front office is determined to shake things up in pursuit of success.
Best Feud: J.T. Miller vs. Elias Pettersson
The tension between Vancouver Canucks stars J.T. Miller and Elias Pettersson has been a hot topic this season. Despite denials from both players, reports of a rift have fueled trade speculation and added drama to the Canucks’ season.
Best Comeback: Patrik Laine
Patrik Laine’s return to form has been a bright spot for the Montreal Canadiens. After prioritizing his mental health and well-being, Laine has scored 10 goals in 15 games, with nine coming on the power play. His candidness and productivity have made him a fan favorite.
Best in (Utah Hockey) Club: Logan Cooley
Logan Cooley has been a standout performer for the Utah Hockey Club, formerly the Arizona Coyotes. With 37 points in 43 games, Cooley has been a key contributor to the team’s playoff push and a glimpse of the bright future ahead.
Most Likely to Continue an NHL Record Playoff Drought: Buffalo Sabres
The Buffalo Sabres are on track to miss the playoffs for a 14th consecutive season, extending their NHL record. Despite bringing back coach Lindy Ruff, the team has struggled to break through in the Eastern Conference.
What’s Next?
As we look ahead to the second half of the season, here are three storylines to watch:
- 4 Nations Face-Off: This new event replaces the All-Star Game and features star players from the U.S., Canada, Sweden, and Finland competing in an exhibition tournament. With national pride on the line, the competition promises to be intense.
- The East Wild-Card Chaos: Nine teams are within seven points of the two wild-card spots in the Eastern Conference, setting the stage for a thrilling playoff race.
- The Trade Deadline: The March 7 deadline could see significant player movement, potentially reshaping the Stanley Cup race.
Originally Written by: Greg Wyshynski
