We are a few weeks into the 2025-2026 NHL season, and we have already seen some teams get out to incredibly hot starts. Some of these teams were expected to be great this season, while others were afterthoughts when the season began. Although it’s early and things can change from week to week, these five NHL teams are on the rise heading into a new week: 

New Jersey Devils:Oct 9, 2025; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; New Jersey Devils defenseman Dougie Hamilton (7) celebrates his goal with center Jack Hughes (86) against the Carolina Hurricanes during the second period at Lenovo Center. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images

The Devils are currently tied for the most points in the NHL. They are 8-1 in their first 9 games and have an impressive +13 goal differential. They are one of two teams that have 8 wins this season, and the next closest team in their division has 6. They were a playoff team a year ago and look to have taken a big step forward this season.

Utah Mammoth:Oct 11, 2025; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Utah Mammoth right wing Dylan Guenther (11) celebrates with his teammates after scoring a goal after the game winning goal against the Nashville Predators during the overtime period at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images

After being one of the worst teams in the NHL for years, the Mammoth had 89 points last season and have gotten off to an incredible start in the 2025-2026 season. Through their first 10 games, they are 8-2 and lead the Western Conference with 16 points and a +13 goal differential. They have definitely been one of the biggest surprises to begin the season. 

Pittsburgh Penguins:Pittsburgh Penguins center Sidney Crosby (87) moves the puck ahead of Chicago Blackhawks center Teuvo TeravainenApr 8, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins center Sidney Crosby (87) moves the puck ahead of Chicago Blackhawks center Teuvo Teravainen (86) during the third period at PPG Paints Arena. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images | Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

It’s been many years since the Penguins were a legitimate contender. They have two future Hall of Famers with Evgeni Malkin and Sidney Crosby on the roster, but both players are well past their prime. Still, they have gotten off to a strong start this season with a 6-2-1 record and a +8 goal differential. They have the third most points in the Eastern Conference and sit in second place in their division. 

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