The NHL’s 2025-26 season has been a rollercoaster of individual performances, and as we edge closer to the playoffs, it’s time to dissect the standout players—both for their brilliance and their shortcomings. Personally, I think this season has been a fascinating study in contrasts, where the gap between excellence and disappointment is often razor-thin. Let’s dive into what makes this season so compelling, team by team, while adding my own commentary and analysis along the way.
Anaheim Ducks
MVP: Jackson LaCombe
What makes LaCombe’s performance particularly fascinating is how he’s become the Ducks’ most consistent defenseman while also contributing offensively. In my opinion, his ability to balance both ends of the ice is a rarity, especially in a franchise that hasn’t seen many productive blueliners. This raises a deeper question: Can LaCombe sustain this level of play and become a cornerstone for Anaheim’s future?
Most Disappointing: Mason McTavish
McTavish’s regression is puzzling, especially after his career-high season in 2024-25. What many people don’t realize is that his struggles under Joel Quenneville’s system highlight a broader issue: the challenge of adapting to a coach’s style. If you take a step back and think about it, this could be a turning point in his career—either he adjusts, or he risks becoming a cautionary tale.
Boston Bruins
MVP: Jeremy Swayman
Swayman’s resurgence after a down year is a testament to his mental toughness. What this really suggests is that goaltenders often face unseen pressures, and Swayman’s ability to bounce back puts him in the Vezina conversation. A detail that I find especially interesting is how his performance mirrors the Bruins’ overall resilience this season.
Most Disappointing: Mikey Eyssimont
Eyssimont’s struggle to secure a lineup spot is less about his talent and more about the Bruins’ depth. From my perspective, this is a classic case of a player being outshined by others rather than underperforming. It’s a reminder that sometimes, disappointment is circumstantial, not personal.
Buffalo Sabres
MVP: Rasmus Dahlin
Dahlin’s season is a masterclass in overcoming adversity. What makes this particularly fascinating is how he’s thrived despite off-ice challenges. His 53% on-ice expected goal share is a stat that doesn’t lie—he’s been Buffalo’s rock. This raises a deeper question: Can Dahlin sustain this level of play and finally bring the Sabres to playoff glory?
Most Disappointing: Michael Kesselring
Kesselring’s injuries are unfortunate, but they also highlight the fragility of a young player’s development. What many people don’t realize is that injuries can derail not just a season, but a career trajectory. It’s a sobering reminder of the unpredictability of professional sports.
Calgary Flames
MVP: Mikael Backlund and Blake Coleman
The shared MVP title here is intriguing. Personally, I think it speaks to the Flames’ lack of depth—these two have had to carry the load while the team strips parts around them. It’s a testament to their work ethic but also a critique of the Flames’ management.
Most Disappointing: Jonathan Huberdeau
Huberdeau’s hip issues are a tragic turn for a player who once looked unstoppable. What this really suggests is that health is the great equalizer in sports. His story is a cautionary tale about the physical toll of the game.
Carolina Hurricanes
MVP: Brandon Bussi
Bussi’s story is one of the NHL’s best this season. A waiver claim turning into a 30-win goalie? That’s the kind of narrative that makes sports so compelling. What makes this particularly fascinating is how he’s defied expectations at every turn.
Most Disappointing: Jesperi Kotkaniemi
Kotkaniemi’s situation is a classic case of unmet potential. His $4.82 million contract feels like an anchor now. If you take a step back and think about it, this is a player who needs a fresh start—either in a new role or a new team.
Final Thoughts
This season has been a reminder that the NHL is as much about individual stories as it is about team success. From LaCombe’s consistency to Huberdeau’s struggles, every player’s journey adds a layer to the league’s narrative. What I find most intriguing is how these performances often reflect broader trends—whether it’s the impact of coaching, the unpredictability of injuries, or the weight of expectations. As we head into the playoffs, these stories will undoubtedly shape how we remember the 2025-26 season. Personally, I can’t wait to see how these narratives unfold.
