These six teams have the smoothest path ahead, facing opponents with the lowest combined win percentages. Will they capitalize on it?
As the NHL season reaches its most intense phase, teams are gearing up for the final push.
Some will have to battle through a gauntlet of tough matchups, while others have a smoother path ahead. A favorable schedule can be a huge advantage—whether it’s racking up wins, giving key players some extra rest, or fine-tuning their game before the playoffs. But no game is ever a guaranteed victory, and underestimating opponents can be costly. With everything on the line, these teams need to make the most of their remaining games. So, let’s take a look at the teams with the easiest road ahead.
Current Performance: The Leafs have been an offensive powerhouse, led by Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, and William Nylander. However, defensive lapses and inconsistent goaltending have plagued their season.
How They Must Tackle the Schedule:
“This initiative shines a light on a community with its own rich heritage of excellence, amplifying the message of belonging, identity and pride in a way that resonates far beyond the game.”
— Toronto Maple Leafs (@MapleLeafs) February 19, 2025
A new logo ahead of our Black Excellence game on Saturday » https://t.co/BrWxQvtVBn pic.twitter.com/42Dk7Orofp
Current Performance: The Senators have had an up-and-down season, struggling with consistency. While their young core—Brady Tkachuk, Tim Stützle, and Thomas Chabot—has shown promise, defensive issues and injuries have set them back.
How They Must Tackle the Schedule:
The #Sens returned to @CdnTireCtr for practice following the break and while a few players are still away for #4Nations, the Sens welcomed a few players back from injury. Jackson Starr has what you need to know in Sens Today 📺 pic.twitter.com/9aJ8lBVZ7e
— Ottawa Senators (@Senators) February 18, 2025
Current Performance: The Avalanche remains one of the NHL’s strongest teams, boasting elite talents like Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar, and Mikko Rantanen. However, injuries and occasional defensive struggles have made their season tougher than expected.
How They Must Tackle the Schedule:
Our Jr. Avs and the Cole Harbour Wings swapped a few players for a special puck drop at an outdoor rink during their time in Quebec.
— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) February 18, 2025
Some legends had a few words for them ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/7oNHifFqcQ
Current Performance: The Canadiens have struggled with consistency, hovering near the bottom of the standings. Injuries and roster depth have been concerns, but young players like Cole Caufield and Nick Suzuki continue to develop.
How They Must Tackle the Schedule:
Let’s do it again! The #4Nations Face-Off championship game is set. pic.twitter.com/QFyQI7JE47
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) February 17, 2025
Current Performance: The Capitals have had a middling season, with Alex Ovechkin still chasing history but the team struggling with depth scoring and defensive stability.
Consistently class.#ALLCAPS pic.twitter.com/7ak471QJcS
— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) February 18, 2025
How They Must Tackle the Schedule:
Image Credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images
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