Time to Grade the NHL Teams

As the dust settles on the 2024-25 NHL regular season and teams prepare for the playoffs, it's time to reflect and evaluate the seasons of all 32 clubs. The Athletic recently gathered insights from its NHL experts to provide grades for each team's performance, taking into account their pre-season expectations.

Anaheim Ducks: B-

With a modest improvement from last year's 59 points to 80, the Ducks showed potential, but they fell short in critical second-half games and missed the wild-card race. Young talents like Leo Carlsson and Mason McTavish took strides forward, but defensive inconsistencies remained a concern.

Boston Bruins: D-

Initially aiming for a playoff run, the Bruins ended in the bottom five, marking a disappointing season. While they made aggressive moves at the trade deadline, the overall lack of performance felt like a major miss.

Buffalo Sabres: F

Coming off a hopeful 84-point season, the Sabres regressed, spending months at the bottom of the Eastern Conference. A 13-game winless streak crushed their playoff dreams, leaving fans disappointed for the 14th consecutive season.

Calgary Flames: C-

Thanks to rookie goalie Dustin Wolf and solid contributions from veterans, the Flames nearly made the playoffs. However, they face the challenge of relinquishing first-round draft picks due to earlier trades, indicating a mixed bag of progress.

Carolina Hurricanes: B+

A season of dramatic roster changes and a headline trade for Mikko Rantanen culminated in a strong finish near the top of the Eastern Conference, putting them in a favorable position for the playoffs.

Chicago Blackhawks: C

While the Blackhawks struggled yet again, their roster transformation brings hope. Promising talent emerged, hinting at a more interesting future despite the team's ongoing rebuilding phase.

Colorado Avalanche: C

With high expectations unmet, the Avalanche still managed to secure a playoff spot. Key roster changes suggest potential for a deep playoff run, which will define their season's success.

Columbus Blue Jackets: A-

Facing adversity, including the loss of teammate Johnny Gaudreau, the Blue Jackets exceeded expectations despite missing the playoffs. Strong individual performances indicate a bright future.

Dallas Stars: A-

The Stars continued to cement their status as top contenders, performing well even after losing key players to injuries. Their depth in talent will be crucial as they head into the playoffs.

Detroit Red Wings: D+

The Red Wings sought playoff contention but fell short after a string of losses. Mixed growth signals a need for further development to break their playoff drought.

Edmonton Oilers: B-

Despite injuries and underwhelming performances from several players, the Oilers remain hopeful but must seek improvements to realize their ambitions.

Florida Panthers: B

The Panthers faced ups and downs during their title defense but still remain a formidable force heading into the playoffs, thanks to a strong core.

Los Angeles Kings: A

Against expectations of decline, the Kings achieved their best season yet. Their veteran leadership and youthful contributions marked a significant achievement.

Minnesota Wild: B-

Despite injuries to key players, the Wild managed to secure a playoff berth. Their resilience under adversity speaks volumes about their potential.

Montreal Canadiens: A

Against the odds, the Canadiens rose from the brink to clinch a playoff spot, showcasing their growth as the NHL's youngest playoff-bound team.

Nashville Predators: F

A disastrous season marred by failed signings and inconsistent coaching left the Predators with little hope moving forward.

New Jersey Devils: C+

While they took a step back, the Devils' solid regular season performance, hindered by injuries, leaves room for optimism for the future.

New York Islanders: C-

A consistently average season for the Islanders kept them just above .500, but without significant change, their future remains uncertain.

New York Rangers: F

After a disappointing season, the Rangers are left with a lot of questions, necessitating significant roster changes as they look to rebound.

Ottawa Senators: B+

The Senators ended an eight-year playoff drought, marking an important milestone and showing promise for the future.

Philadelphia Flyers: D+

Despite predictable struggles, the Flyers must address glaring issues before they see their fortunes change next season.

Pittsburgh Penguins: D

With defensive woes and a lack of playoff contention, the Penguins face a critical offseason to regroup and replan.

San Jose Sharks: C+

Despite finishing last in the league, the Sharks demonstrated youthful talent and have potential for significant development ahead.

Seattle Kraken: C-

Indications of progress turned sour due to goaltending issues; Seattle has more to prove as they gear for next season.

St. Louis Blues: B+

Under new coaching, the Blues rallied together for a late-season surge, proving they can contend for the playoffs.

Tampa Bay Lightning: A

Showing their championship spirit, the revamped Lightning surged back to the top, making them serious threats once again.

Toronto Maple Leafs: B+

Celebrating their first division title in 25 years, the Leafs have laid a strong foundation for potential playoff success.

Utah Hockey Club: C+

Moving up in standings, the Utah club showed growth but still need to capitalize on strong performances for greater success.

Vancouver Canucks: D

Underperforming and plagued by injuries, the Canucks left fans wanting more from a season filled with potential.

Vegas Golden Knights: A

With seamless line adjustments and a robust performance, the Golden Knights solidified their stance as a leading contender.

Washington Capitals: A

An impressive season highlighted by milestones and strategic trades, the Capitals made definitive strides in their pursuit of the Cup.

Winnipeg Jets: A+

Winning the Presidents’ Trophy, the Jets excelled in every aspect, showcasing potential for a deep playoff run.