NHL Early Season Surprises: Ducks, Canadiens, and Bruins Off to Big Starts
The NHL season is still in its early days, but the league is already serving up some major surprises. A few teams expected to be near the bottom are instead looking like good teams, although it’s very early in the NHL season. The Anaheim Ducks, Montreal Canadiens, and Boston Bruins are proving that preseason predictions are just that—predictions.
Anaheim Ducks: Youth Movement Paying Off
Let’s start in Anaheim, where the Ducks are turning heads. After years of rebuilding, their collection of high-end draft picks is finally starting to gel at the NHL level. Young guns like Leo Carlsson and Mason McTavish are not just contributing; they’re driving the offense. This isn’t just a flash in the pan; the Ducks are playing with speed, structure, and a swagger that’s been missing for years.
Their power play has been lethal, and the team’s overall pace of play has caught opponents off guard. While no one was penciling them in for a deep playoff run, their hot start is a clear signal that the rebuild is over. The Ducks are no longer an easy two points on the schedule; they’re a hungry, talented team ready to compete every night.
Montreal Canadiens: A Stunning Turnaround
Over in Montreal, the Canadiens are authoring one of the most compelling stories of the young NHL season. After finishing dead last just a season ago, they’re now near the top of the league standings. The top line has been nothing short of electric. Nick Suzuki is playing like a true number one center, racking up points, while Cole Caufield has found his scoring touch, leading the charge with his goal-scoring prowess.
What’s impressive is that it’s not just one line carrying the load. The Habs are getting contributions from up and down the lineup. The energy in the Bell Centre is palpable, and for the first time in a while, there’s a real belief that this team can do more than just compete—they can win. Martin St-Louis has his squad playing with a confidence that has completely transformed their identity.
Boston Bruins: New Faces, Same Dominance
Many experts around the NHL predicted a regression for the Boston Bruins this season. After losing key veterans and their top two centers, it was a fair assumption. But despite predictions, the Bruins are having fun once more. Their combination of disciplined defense, excellent goaltending, and timely scoring has allowed them to maintain their dominance in the Eastern Conference without missing a beat.
The “next man up” mentality is on full display. The team’s core leadership has made sure that their competitive fire never wanes, and new arrivals have been smoothly incorporated into the system. Boston is known for their tenacity, and they are once again demonstrating that their winning culture can withstand roster turnover. The Bruins’ period of supremacy is far from ended because they play a disciplined, tough style that constantly frustrates opponents.
The first month of the NHL season has been a thrilling ride, and if these early trends are any indication, we’re in for a wild and unpredictable year.
