by Jazz Ray
Sunday, Oct 26, 2025Hello, hockey enthusiasts! With over a handful of games played, each team has hit the ice between eight and 10 times. The early standings reveal some unexpected twists. Things aren't quite as predicted yet. For instance, Montreal is leading the Atlantic Division, while New Jersey tops the Metro. Meanwhile, the Lightning and the Rangers are languishing at the bottom of their divisions. Out West, the Mammoth is dominating. This week, I'll dive into five of the early overachievers and then share my strategy for them moving forward.
MONTREAL (7-3, 14 points, 36 goals for, 30 goals against, 5-3-2 O/U)
The Canadiens, one of only two teams to play 10 games by Sunday, have a solid 7-3 record. Their +6 goal differential shows they're winning without overwhelming opponents. This young, dynamic team is exciting to watch. They may not hold onto the Atlantic's top spot, but I anticipate a largely successful season.
Buy/Sell Rating: Neutral
The Canadiens, one of only two teams to play 10 games by Sunday, have a solid 7-3 record. Their +6 goal differential shows they're winning without overwhelming opponents. This young, dynamic team is exciting to watch. They may not hold onto the Atlantic's top spot, but I anticipate a largely successful season.
Buy/Sell Rating: Neutral
NEW JERSEY (7-1, 14 points, 31 goals for, 19 against, 4-4 O/U)
The Devils boast the league's best record, earning 14 points in eight games with a +12 goal differential, tied for first. Their stellar play isn't surprising, given projections of around 100 points. While an 88% win rate won't last, they're a clear playoff contender. I'll be selective with their games.
Buy/Sell Rating: Neutral
The Devils boast the league's best record, earning 14 points in eight games with a +12 goal differential, tied for first. Their stellar play isn't surprising, given projections of around 100 points. While an 88% win rate won't last, they're a clear playoff contender. I'll be selective with their games.
Buy/Sell Rating: Neutral
UTAH (7-2, 14 points, 34 goals for, 22 against, 4-5 O/U)
Rebranded as The Mammoth from "The Hockey Team," Utah is thriving, especially with a perfect 4-0 home record. Despite the strong start, I'm skeptical about the Mammoth's staying power. Projected for about 92 points, they’re unlikely to maintain this pace. Look for opportunities to bet against them.
Buy/Sell Rating: Sell
Rebranded as The Mammoth from "The Hockey Team," Utah is thriving, especially with a perfect 4-0 home record. Despite the strong start, I'm skeptical about the Mammoth's staying power. Projected for about 92 points, they’re unlikely to maintain this pace. Look for opportunities to bet against them.
Buy/Sell Rating: Sell
PITTSBURGH (6-2-1, 13 points, 32 goals for, 24 goals against, 5-2 O/U)
The Penguins have started strong. So, far they're the "most profitable" team for their backers. However, their longevity is questionable. As the league’s oldest team, averaging nearly 31 years, fatigue and injuries will likely soon take a toll. Despite their talent, I expect the Penguins to fade and miss the playoffs.
Buy/Sell Rating: Sell
The Penguins have started strong. So, far they're the "most profitable" team for their backers. However, their longevity is questionable. As the league’s oldest team, averaging nearly 31 years, fatigue and injuries will likely soon take a toll. Despite their talent, I expect the Penguins to fade and miss the playoffs.
Buy/Sell Rating: Sell
BUFFALO (4-4-1, 9 points, 27 goals for, 27 goals against, 3-4 O/U)
I’m optimistic about the Sabres. They may not win the Stanley Cup or even make the playoffs, but they’ll compete in most games. Unlike past seasons where poor starts buried them, their nine points in nine games show promise. Years of underperformance keep them undervalued, making them a good bet.
Buy/Sell Rating: Buy
I’m optimistic about the Sabres. They may not win the Stanley Cup or even make the playoffs, but they’ll compete in most games. Unlike past seasons where poor starts buried them, their nine points in nine games show promise. Years of underperformance keep them undervalued, making them a good bet.
Buy/Sell Rating: Buy
