🏒 2025–26 NHL Metropolitan Division Season Outlook: Contenders, Rebuilders, and Rising Stars
As the 2025–26 NHL season commences, the Metropolitan Division emerges as one of the most competitive in the league. With a blend of established powerhouses, emerging contenders, and teams in transition, the division promises an exhilarating campaign. This comprehensive analysis delves into each team’s prospects, key player developments, and strategic insights to provide a detailed outlook for the division.
The Metropolitan Division enters 2025-26 with an interesting mix: a few clear contenders, some clubs on the rise, and others in transition. Historically one of the deeper divisions in the Eastern Conference, the “Metro” this year appears more open than usual — there’s not a runaway powerhouse (on paper) and several teams have question marks. That means there’s room for surprises, shake-ups, and potentially a late-season jockeying for wild‐card or divisional positioning.
In recent seasons, teams like the Washington Capitals and Carolina Hurricanes have held the upper hand, but the division still features the marquee franchises (New York Rangers, New Jersey Devils) who believe they are ready to challenge. At the same time, squads such as the Philadelphia Flyers and Pittsburgh Penguins are trying to fashion regrouping seasons.
With that context, let’s run through each team — what they did last year, what’s changed, what to watch, and how they’re likely to fare in 2025-26.
Team Outlooks
Carolina Hurricanes
2024-25 Recap: In 2024-25, the Hurricanes posted a 47-30-5 record (99 points) and finished second in the Metro Division. They advanced to the Eastern Conference Final before being eliminated by the Florida Panthers. They’ve built a reputation for consistent playoff runs, disciplined two-way hockey, and depth.
What’s new / key storylines:
- The goaltending is a question: They re-signed veteran Frederik Andersen to a one-year deal for 2025-26.
- On the offensive front, young forwards like Seth Jarvis (32 goals in 2024-25) make them more dynamic.
- The challenge: maintaining road consistency (their 16-21-4 road record in 2024-25 was less inspiring) and staying healthy.
- They appear to have the most stable foundation of any Metro team.
Key Additions: Forward Nikolaj Ehlers, defenseman K’Andre Miller, goaltender Cayden Primeau
Key Losses: Veterans Brent Burns, Dmitri Orlov, Jack Roslovic
Outlook: Entering the 2025–26 season, the Hurricanes are poised to contend for the Stanley Cup. With a projected 106.5 points, they aim to improve their power play, which ranked 25th last year, while maintaining their league-best penalty kill. The addition of Ehlers provides a scoring boost, and Miller’s presence strengthens the defense.
Strengths: Depth up front, solid defensive structure, experience in the playoffs, a coach and core that know how to grind.
Weaknesses: Goaltending uncertainty, road record inconsistency, potential cap/contract issues that could limit mid-season upgrades.
X-Factor: If Andersen can deliver reliably (and stay healthy), Carolina may avoid the “just good” label and become a true threat. If not, they could slip.
Prediction for 2025-26: I predict Carolina will finish 1st in the division with around ~110 points (roughly matching projections by other analysts: e.g., a prediction of 53-25-4, 110 pts for Metro’s top team). They’ll be the favorite to win the division and be among the top seeds in the East.
New Jersey Devils
Recent performance & context: The Devils in 2024-25 went 42-33-7 and made the playoffs, finishing third in the Metro. Analysts believe this is a “pivotal year” for the organization: the core (Jack Hughes, Jesper Bratt, Nico Hischier, Luke Hughes) is no longer emerging — they’re expected to deliver.
What’s new / key storylines:
- Health is a big storyline: injury luck has plagued this team (Jack Hughes, Dougie Hamilton, Jonas Siegenthaler have missed significant time). If they stay healthy, the ceiling is high.
- Coaching / system continuity: Under head coach Sheldon Keefe, the Devils aim to cement a top-tier status rather than rebuild.
- Depth still a question: Beyond the top lines, there’s still some risk in how productive the supporting cast will be.
Key Additions: None
Key Losses: None
Outlook: With a solid foundation, the Devils are poised for a breakthrough season. The team’s depth and the continued development of key players position them as strong contenders in the division.
Strengths: High-end young talent, forward group with scoring capability, improving defence, upward trajectory.
Weaknesses: Limited proven playoff success yet, health concerns, depth still behind some of the veteran contenders.
X-Factor: The emergence of Luke Hughes plus ability of Timo Meier (if signed/used properly) to deliver 30+ goals. According to one preview: “If the new guys find chemistry … the Devils will be quite the force.”
Prediction for 2025-26: I project New Jersey finishing 2nd in the division, perhaps around 95–100 points (say ~42-29-11, ~95 points as per one prediction). They’ll be expected to make the playoffs comfortably and challenge for a conference semifinal.
Washington Capitals
Recent performance & context: The Capitals captured the Metro Division in 2024-25 with a 51-22-9 record. They have veteran leadership, including the legendary Alexander Ovechkin chasing NHL goal records, and a team culture steeped in competitiveness.
What’s new / key storylines:
- Age and decline curves: Some of the core players are aging; the question is whether Washington can maintain high-end performance.
- Depth and goaltending: As with many teams here, consistent goaltending and younger players stepping up will be important.
- Motivation: After winning the division, the question is whether they can take the next step in the playoffs (something they haven’t consistently done in recent years).
- As one preview predicted: “The Capitals may take a slight step back” though they’ll still be dangerous.
Key Additions: None
Key Losses: None
Outlook: Following an impressive 2024–25 season, the Capitals aim to build on their success. While replicating last year’s performance is challenging, the team remains a formidable contender. The leadership of Alex Ovechkin and the emergence of young talents will be crucial in maintaining their competitive edge.
Strengths: Veteran savvy, proven winners, good core, strong puck-possession teams historically.
Weaknesses: Declining production risk, fewer “breakout” young players, reliance on older players.
X-Factor: Ovechkin’s ability to continue to produce at a high level and the emergence of younger players to fill the gaps.
Prediction for 2025-26: I’ll slot Washington in 3rd with roughly ~100 points (consistent with predictions like 47-29-6, 100 points). They should make the playoffs, likely as a top seed, but might not win the division.
New York Rangers
Last season summary:
The Rangers had a disappointing regular season relative to expectations: 39-36-7. They missed the kind of playoff run expected after previous seasons.
Key storylines:
- After being a top-seed team recently, the Rangers appear to be in a bit of a reset or at least in need of a rebound.
- Managing expectations and getting consistency from the star players (like Artemi Panarin) will be central.
Key Additions: Forward Conor Sheary
Key Losses: None
Outlook: The Rangers boast an explosive offense, led by Artemi Panarin and Mika Zibanejad. The addition of Sheary adds depth to the forward lines. However, defensive consistency remains a concern, and goaltender Igor Shesterkin’s performance will be pivotal in the team’s success.
Strengths:They still have high-end talent and potential for big performance nights.
- Big-market team with resources and pressure to succeed
- Weaknesses:They’ve under-performed recently; culture/consistency are questions.
- Depth and support beyond the stars might be lacking compared to the top division teams.
- Outlook / prediction:
I see the Rangers finishing 6th or 7th in the division if things don’t improve markedly. They have the roster to push higher, but it may need coaching adjustments and internal buy-in to make a leap.
Columbus Blue Jackets
Last season summary:
Columbus posted a record of 40-33-9. They were just off the playoff pace and showed signs of upward movement.
Key storylines:
- The team dealt with tragedy (the passing of a former player) and responded with emotion and competitive spirit.
- Young core (e.g., Adam Fantilli) is developing, and roster moves suggest a push toward contention.
Key Additions: None
Key Losses: None
Outlook: In the midst of a rebuild, the Blue Jackets focus on player development and building a competitive team for the future. While immediate success may be limited, the team’s long-term prospects are promising.
- Strengths:
- The youth movement gives them upside and energy.
- Some strong home performances.
Weaknesses
- Road struggles (14-23-4 last year)
- Goaltending and consistency may still be questions
Outlook / prediction:
Columbus might be a sleeper for a wild-card spot. I’d project them finishing 4th or 5th in the division, with potential upside if things click. But they probably aren’t quite ready to be a top-tier Metro team yet.
New York Islanders
Last season summary:
The Islanders ended 2024-25 with a 35-35-12 record. They finished 6th in the Metro and missed a deep playoff run.
Key storylines:
- The arrival of new coach Patrick Roy (in 2023-24 and full season 2024-25) means this is still a transition.
- Goaltender Ilya Sorokin remains a strength.
Key Additions: Defenseman Matthew Schaefer (No. 1 overall pick)
Key Losses: None
Outlook: Entering a rebuilding phase, the Islanders focus on developing young talent. Schaefer’s addition bolsters the defense, and his pairing with veteran Scott Mayfield provides a solid foundation. The team’s performance hinges on the growth of emerging players and the development of team chemistry.
- Strengths:
- Solid defensive foundation that has been a hallmark of the Islanders.
- Goaltending can keep them in games.
Weaknesses: - Offensively they’ve struggled to keep pace with the top clubs.
- The transition under coaching means they may take time to fully gel.
Prediction:
I expect New York Islanders to finish 5th or 6th in the division. They should be competitive for a bit, but likely just short of the top playoff seeds unless a breakout happens.
Pittsburgh Penguins
Last season summary:
Pittsburgh posted a 34-36-12 record and finished 7th in the Metro. They missed the playoffs for a third consecutive season.
Key storylines:
- The end of coaching era: after this season their long-time coach Mike Sullivan parted ways.
- Although still led by legends like Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin, the team is clearly in transition.
Key Additions: None
Key Losses: None
Outlook: With the departure of longtime stars Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin, the Penguins enter a transition phase. The team focuses on integrating new leadership and developing young talent to maintain competitiveness in the division.
- Strengths:
- Rich in playoff experience, big-game players.
- Potential to surprise if young players step up.
- Weaknesses:
- Probably past their peak; roster aging and depth concerns.
- Goaltending and defensive inconsistencies macerated their results.
- Outlook / prediction:
I’d place Pittsburgh at 7th or 8th in the Metro, maybe missing the playoffs unless they catch fire. The transition period suggests they’re not quite ready for a full resurgence.
Philadelphia Flyers
Last season summary:
The Flyers ended 2024-25 at 33-39-10, placing 8th in the Metro and 16th in the East. They missed the playoffs again, extending a drought.
Key storylines:
- This team is clearly in a rebuild phase; young talent development and long-term planning are priorities.
- Coaching change mid-season (John Tortorella out in March) signalled the franchise direction shifting.
Key Additions: None
Key Losses: Andre Kuzmenko
Outlook: In a rebuilding phase, the Flyers prioritize player development and future prospects. While immediate success is unlikely, the team’s long-term strategy focuses on building a competitive roster for the future.
Strengths:
- High draft picks and young core, potentially building for the future.
- Some emerging offensive pieces.
Weaknesses:
- Inconsistent goaltending and defense; allowed 286 goals last year.
- Not yet at a competitive level for a playoff run.
- Outlook / prediction:
I expect Philadelphia to finish 8th in the Metro and likely outside the playoff picture again in 2025-26. The focus should be on growth rather than immediate contention.
Final thoughts – Metro division snapshots
- The top tier likely remains Washington and Carolina.
- The middle tier might have New Jersey and Columbus fighting for the second playoff spot(s).
- The bottom half have New York Islanders, Rangers, Penguins and Flyers — all with varying degrees of transition or rebuild
Predictions & Key Storylines
- Division Winner: Carolina Hurricanes
- Playoff Bound: Washington Capitals, New Jersey Devils, New York Rangers
- Wild Card Contenders: New York Islanders, Columbus Blue Jackets
- Rebuilding Focus: Pittsburgh Penguins, Philadelphia Flyers
Key Storylines:
- Hurricanes’ Cup Aspirations: The Hurricanes aim to translate regular-season success into postseason glory.
- Capitals’ Consistency: Following an impressive 2024–25 season, the Capitals strive to maintain their high level of play.
- Devils’ Breakthrough: With a solid foundation, the Devils look to make a deeper playoff run.
- Rangers’ Defensive Concerns: Addressing defensive issues will be crucial for the Rangers to capitalize on their offensive prowess.
- Islanders’ Youth Development: The development of young talents like Schaefer will be key to the Islanders’ future success.
Final Thoughts
As the season unfolds, everyone’s calculating odds and checking matchups to see which teams will make it through the playoffs and possibly sip from the Stanley Cup. Predicting these outcomes is like trying to forecast the weather; it’s unpredictable, but full of patterns.
Last season set a high bar, with intense competition highlighting some key trends. A mix of solid defensive tactics and sharp offensive plays pushed teams to rethink their game plans. Coming into 2025, these trends aren’t just lingering; they’re the framework teams are using to plot out their wins.
Trades and drafts are shaking things up seriously. New faces are stepping up in key roles, while old favorites aim to prove they’ve still got what it takes. The draft picks this year added a whole new layer of excitement, with some fresh names generating lots of buzz.
But the holy grail remains the Stanley Cup, and the road to it is steep. Not every team has the make-up to reach that pinnacle. However, one cannot discount the impact of momentum. Those teams sneaking into the playoffs often carry the kind of energy and tenacity that can upset higher-seeded teams and push deep into playoffs.
In a nutshell, the 2025 outlook for the Metropolitan Division is a lively, ever-evolving landscape. As these teams hit the ice, all eyes will be on how effectively they can turn potential into performance, setting the stage for a season that promises plenty of action and unpredictability.
Check out the hockey viking’s outlooks for all the other divisions, and stick with me for what looks to be like a thrilling hockey season.