Every NHL season brings its own set of surprises, and the 2024 season is no exception. Teams that seemed like surefire playoff contenders are now struggling, while others are defying all expectations. Amid these dynamics, the Utah franchise is making waves with significant acquisitions and promising young talent.
Utah's Strategic Moves
Utah's roster changes during the 2024 NHL Draft have captured considerable attention. Defenseman Mikhail Sergachev was acquired from the Tampa Bay Lightning, a move that bolsters Utah's defensive capabilities. Additionally, the team landed John Marino from the New Jersey Devils and integrated Sean Durzi into their defensive corps, forming a solid backbone for the team.
Offensively, Utah boasts Clayton Keller, who is coming off a 76-point campaign during the 2023-24 season. Adding to this offensive prowess, Logan Cooley, the No. 3 overall pick in 2022, had a solid rookie season with 20 goals and 44 points. Meanwhile, Dylan Guenther, the No. 9 overall pick in 2021, tallied 35 points in 45 games. All eyes are also on Matias Maccelli, who, at just 24 years old, represents a promising future for the team.
In goal, Connor Ingram’s performance will be crucial for Utah's ambitions. Ingram saved 5.05 goals above average last season and maintained a high-danger save percentage of .841, stats that underscore his reliability between the pipes. With these talents and the end of persistent relocation rumors, Utah seems poised for a promising future.
Buffalo Sabres' New Look
The Buffalo Sabres, who have not made a playoff appearance since 2011, are also a team with renewed hopes. Alex Tuch had a productive season with 22 goals and 37 assists, while Tage Thompson scored 56 points in 71 games last season. The 22-year-old forward JJ Peterka reached the 28-goal mark and notched 50 points, making him a potent offensive force. Jack Quinn, the No. 8 overall pick in 2020, contributed 14 goals in his rookie season in 2022-23, showing glimpses of his high potential.
Buffalo has also bolstered their blue line by adding Bowen Byram, a promising young defenseman. In goal, Ukko-Pekka Luukonen saved 10.1 goals above average last season, indicating a steady presence in the net. These acquisitions and performances reflect a team eager to break their long-standing playoff drought.
Montreal's Emerging Stars
In Montreal, Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield have become the core of the Canadiens' offensive strategy. Last season, they combined for an impressive 61 goals and 81 assists. At 24 and 23 years old respectively, Suzuki and Caufield are expected to continue their upward trajectory. Juraj Slafkovsky, who contributed 20 goals and 30 assists last season, adds more firepower to the lineup.
Lane Hutson made his NHL debut last season, playing two games after an outstanding collegiate career at Boston University, where he amassed 97 points in 77 games. Although still early in his professional career, Hutson's performance hints at significant potential for growth.
Injury Concerns and Comebacks
Columbus is grappling with a significant challenge as Patrik Laine suffered a knee injury in a preseason game, a blow to their offensive depth. On the other hand, fans of the Minnesota Wild have reasons to be optimistic. Matt Boldy has consistently demonstrated his scoring ability, recording 75 goals and 96 points in 203 NHL games, maintaining a 30-goal pace over the last two seasons. Rookie Marco Rossi is coming off a 40-point first full season and played the second-most five-on-five minutes of any Wild forward last year. Rossi’s control of 52.9% of expected goals during five-on-five play underscores his importance to the team’s strategy.
As the 2024 NHL season continues to unfold with numerous storylines, from surprising performances to strategic acquisitions, fans have much to be excited about. Teams like Utah, Buffalo, Montreal, and Minnesota are navigating their paths with new aspirations and rebuilding efforts, making for an engaging and highly competitive season ahead.