Power Rankings and Player Picks: How Canada’s Teams Stack Up So Far

The Athletic’s early-season power rankings offer a snapshot of how Canada’s NHL clubs are faring — and, perhaps more importantly, how outsiders see them. There are surprises, confirmations, and a few cautionary notes. The Athletic also reviewed each team’s players as potential Olympic candidates for their respective countries.

Here’s a closer look. [From “NHL Power Rankings: A new No. 1, plus Olympic roster bubble boys,” by Sean Gentille and Dom Luszczyszyn, The Athletic, 07/11/2025]

[As a note, The Athletic did a complete review of the NHL’s 32 teams, but we just highlighted the reviews of the Canadian teams. You will see their rank in the entire NHL in parentheses in their title.]

Winnipeg Jets: A Hot Start (5th, 9–4–0)

The Jets have taken off like a freight train, and much of the credit belongs to Mark Scheifele. The veteran center is scoring at a ridiculous clip — over two goals per 60 minutes. His international experience adds a polish that the team clearly leans on. Kyle Connor hasn’t always shone, but Winnipeg’s structured system keeps them competitive even when their stars stumble. The Athletic ranks them fifth for a reason: balance, experience, and timely contributions from their top-end talent.

Montreal Canadiens: Rising Stock (6th, 9–3–2)

Nick Suzuki is making a case no one can ignore. Leveling up at both ends of the ice, he’s quietly become a Selke candidate and the engine of Montreal’s early success. Cole Caufield and Lane Hutson continue to impress, though size and defensive doubts temper expectations for international play. Still, Montreal’s steady, intelligent approach is earning them respect, and The Athletic’s ranking reflects the league’s recognition that the Canadiens’ core is playing at a higher level than many expected.

Toronto Maple Leafs: Stars Aligning (10th, 8–5–1)

Toronto’s climb in the rankings is fueled by John Tavares and Matthew Knies, each posting 18 points in 14 games. Stripped of the “C” and the burden of an $11 million cap hit, Tavares is playing freer and smarter, and Knies is showing an underrated playmaking side. The Athletic sees promise, though consistency remains a concern. This is a team capable of brilliance, but also of letting a strong start slip if the supporting cast doesn’t step up.

Edmonton Oilers: Treading Water (14th, 6–5–4)

Defensive concerns loom large for Edmonton. Evan Bouchard’s struggles have dragged down goaltending, with a save percentage hovering at .880. Injuries and roster inconsistency have kept the Oilers from climbing, and Mattias Ekholm’s negative Net Rating underscores the gaps. Talent is present, but structure and stability are lacking, which explains the Oilers’ middling placement.

Ottawa Senators: Flashes, Not Yet Full Bloom (23rd, 6–5–3)

Shane Pinto shines as a defensive center, and Linus Ullmark’s performance gives hope on the international stage. Yet the Senators are still finding their identity. The Athletic recognizes individual talent but penalizes inconsistency and uneven depth — Ottawa can excite, but it’s not yet a team built for sustained success.

Vancouver Canucks: Solid Goaltending, Weak Support (26th, 7–8–0)

Thatcher Demko is performing at a high level, saving 9.3 goals above expected through nine games. But hockey isn’t one-man theatre. Vancouver’s middling roster and uneven scoring keep them near the bottom of the Canadian pack. A strong goalie only carries a team so far, and The Athletic’s ranking reflects that reality.

Calgary Flames: Struggling to Keep Up (32nd, 4–9–2)

Calgary is last for reasons that are hard to overlook. MacKenzie Weegar’s absence from international play and a slow start on home ice (four points in 15 games) point to problems in both offensive support and puck management. Early-season struggles and roster limitations make it difficult to see this Flames squad climbing anytime soon.