As we near the end of November in the 2024-25 NHL season, the focus is shifting towards the approaching “Thanksgiving playoff cutoff” period. This marks a critical time for teams to assess their postseason potential. Over the last decade, more than 75% of teams that were in a playoff position by Thanksgiving went on to secure a spot in the postseason.
Teams like the Carolina Hurricanes, Washington Capitals, and Minnesota Wild have defied expectations this season and are now in contention for a playoff berth. Despite the significance of the Thanksgiving marker, it does not influence our ESPN NHL Power Rankings, which continue to be topped by the Winnipeg Jets.
Each team in the NHL has something to be thankful for this season, whether it’s standout players, positive trends, or key equipment. Let’s explore some of the highlights from the latest rankings and the reasons for gratitude for each team.
The Winnipeg Jets, sitting at the top of the rankings, are thankful for their ability to bounce back from a recent defeat with a resounding victory. Despite a setback against the Panthers, the Jets rallied to secure a convincing win in a rematch, showcasing their resilience.
The Carolina Hurricanes have Martin Necas to thank for his impressive 13-game point streak, defying expectations and contributing significantly to the team’s success this season.
The Minnesota Wild’s Marcus Foligno brought attention to the importance of protective gear in hockey, sharing a story about Mats Zuccarello’s injury and recovery. This anecdote serves as a reminder of the toughness and resilience of hockey players.
The Washington Capitals are grateful for Alex Ovechkin’s stellar performance this season, despite a recent injury that has sidelined him temporarily. Ovechkin’s pursuit of the career goal-scoring record has captivated fans and added excitement to the season.
The Florida Panthers continue to impress with their strong start and the standout performance of Sam Reinhart, who leads the league in goals and points. Reinhart’s contributions have been instrumental in the Panthers’ success this season.
The New York Rangers boast one of the best goalie tandems in the league, with Jonathan Quick and Igor Shesterkin providing solid performances between the pipes. Their strong goaltending has been a key factor in the Rangers’ success.
In summary, as the NHL season progresses, teams have much to be thankful for, from standout players to key equipment and positive trends. Each team’s unique strengths and contributions add to the excitement and competitiveness of the league, making for an engaging and thrilling season of hockey.