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. One team surprising many is Utah, which has made significant acquisitions and boasts promising young talent.
Utah's Impressive Roster Moves
During the 2024 NHL Draft, Utah made waves by acquiring defenseman Mikhail Sergachev from the Tampa Bay Lightning, adding a solid presence to their defensive line. They didn't stop there, landing John Marino from the New Jersey Devils and integrating Sean Durzi into their defensive corps.
The offensive side of Utah's roster is also noteworthy. Clayton Keller is coming off an impressive 76-point campaign during the 2023-24 season, proving to be a reliable scorer. Additionally, Logan Cooley, the No. 3 overall pick in 2022, had a solid rookie season with 20 goals and 44 points. Moreover, Dylan Guenther, the No. 9 overall pick in 2021, tallied 35 points in 45 games, showcasing his offensive potential.
Matias Maccelli, at 24 years old, is another young talent on the team. Goalie Connor Ingram was a standout last season, saving 5.05 goals above average and maintaining a high-danger save percentage of .841, as reported by Natural Stat Trick. With these talents and the end of persistent relocation rumors, Utah seems poised for a promising future.
Buffalo's Long Playoff Drought
Meanwhile, the Buffalo Sabres continue their quest to end an extended playoff drought, having not made an appearance since 2011. Despite this, there are positive signs emerging. Forward Alex Tuch had a productive season with 22 goals and 37 assists, while Tage Thompson's 56 points in 71 games, although a drop-off from his 94 points in 78 games the previous year, still demonstrated his value to the team.
JJ Peterka, a 22-year-old forward, reached the 28-goal mark and notched 50 points, providing hope for the future. Jack Quinn, the No. 8 overall pick in 2020, endured injuries last year but showed promise in his rookie season with 14 goals in 2022-23. The addition of Bowen Byram and the consistent performance by Ukko-Pekka Luukonen, who saved 10.1 goals above average despite unfavorable conditions, also give the Sabres a reason for optimism.
Rising Stars in Montreal
In Montreal, the Canadiens’ young stars are beginning to mature, and their progress is a bright spot for the franchise. Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield combined for an impressive 61 goals and 81 assists last season. At 24 and 23 years old respectively, their future looks promising. Juraj Slafkovsky also ended the season with strong numbers, contributing 20 goals and 30 assists.
Looking to the future, Lane Hutson made his debut, playing two games last season. His collegiate career at Boston University was outstanding; he amassed 97 points in 77 games, hinting at his potential at the professional level.
Challenges and Injury Setbacks
However, the season hasn't been without its setbacks. Noteworthy is the significant knee injury suffered by Patrik Laine in a preseason game. This injury is a blow to his team as they navigate the ups and downs of the NHL season.
Across the league, players like Matt Boldy and Marco Rossi are making names for themselves. Boldy has recorded 75 goals and 96 points in just 203 NHL games, maintaining a 30-goal pace over the last two seasons. At just 23 years old, his potential remains sky-high.
Similarly, Marco Rossi, after totaling 40 points in his first full season and playing the second-most five-on-five minutes of any Wild forward, has demonstrated his value. He controlled 52.9% of expected goals during five-on-five play, according to Natural Stat Trick, further cementing his role as a vital part of the team.
The 2024 NHL season is unfolding with plenty of storylines to watch. From Utah's ambitious roster overhauls to Buffalo's persistent playoff chase and the emerging stars in Montreal, fans have much to be excited about. As the season progresses, these narratives will undoubtedly continue to develop, offering endless excitement and unpredictability—hallmarks of the NHL.