A bunch of NHL teams made some significant moves to improve their chances at competing for a Stanley Cup in the upcoming season, but how many of those teams can surprise fans who may have doubted them this offseason? Teams that come to mind are the Washington Capitals, St. Louis Blues, San Jose Sharks, New Jersey Devils, and Nashville Predators.
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Washington Capitals
The Washington Capitals missed the playoffs last season despite having a good year. This offseason, the Caps were not playing around with their additions. Adding Jordan Kyrou and Alex Tuch up front will help the Caps become an elite two-way threat for their offense. This team is going to be much better and could give the Carolina Hurricanes a run for their money in the Metropolitan Division
St. Louis Blues
Mar 30, 2026; San Jose, California, USA; St. Louis Blues left winger Pavel Buchnevich (89) is congratulated after scoring during the first period against the San Jose Sharks at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images
The St. Louis Blues finished with 86 points, and they could be destined for a big season. Mason McTavish is a new face for the Blues and can provide some scoring. He shoots a ton, and playing with a playmaker like Pavel Buchnevich, the offense for the Blues could improve. Their defense should be improved with their new addition of Brandon Carlo too.
San Jose Sharks
The team that won the draft was the San Jose Sharks. Did they win free agency? Not necessarily. But they think the moves could work out. Are Darnell Nurse and Jacob Trouba the solutions for their defensive core? I am not sure, but they can be a veteran presence and help develop this young core with Macklin Celebrini, Will Smith, and more.
New Jersey Devils
Apr 9, 2026; Newark, New Jersey, USA; New Jersey Devils center Jack Hughes (86) after his goal during the third period against the Pittsburgh Penguins at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Luther Schlaifer-Imagn Images
A team that could bounce back from last year could be New Jersey. One of the key points is if Jack Hughes can stay healthy. Trading away Jacob Markstrom for Evan Rodriguez can help this offense in a huge way. Markstrom was declining, and the Devils got Rodriguez at a good cost. They have pieces to their team; they just need to put them together.
Nashville Predators
Nashville was busy this offseason making new additions to their roster. This team can surprise some fans because of the division that they are in. But they improved this team by adding Mavrik Bourque and Ross Colton, and this is a new era. They had one of the best offseasons and could be in store for a strong season if their players perform.
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