"After two seasons below seemingly impossible expectations, it feels like this is finally Bedard's year. A reminder that Nathan Mackinnon did not become the rhinoceros on skates we know today until his fifth NHL season, so give the much smaller Bedard a chance. Not that the preseason is always an indicator of anything, but Bedard's shot and elite vision were on display consistently in September."
"As is tradition, a "breakout" does not always mean offensive production. It can mean an elevated role at even strength, more special teams time, and exposure to tougher matchups. Many of the players on this list are expected to see major role increases and a few of them should break out in the traditional sense. C, Chicago Blackhawks The most obvious player to include on this list."
Multiple NHL players are poised for significant role and production increases entering 2025-26. Breakouts include not only scoring surges but expanded even-strength minutes, special teams time, and tougher assignments. Connor Bedard is expected to take a major step forward after inconsistent first two seasons; if healthy he could exceed a point per game while playing over 20 minutes, generating three to four shots per game, and seeing an uptick in shooting percentage. Historical comparisons note late development is possible, with Nathan MacKinnon’s fifth-season leap cited. Several other players are projected to receive elevated roles that may translate to measurable statistical improvements.
Read at ESPN.com
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]