As the 2024-25 NHL regular season concludes, teams across the league are reflecting on their performances and preparing for the playoffs or the offseason. The Athletic’s NHL staff has taken the opportunity to assign grades to all 32 clubs based on their overall seasons and expectations for improvement.
Starting with the Anaheim Ducks (35-37-10), they received a B- grade. The Ducks were anticipated to improve, and while a jump from 59 points to 80 does reflect progress, they struggled in crucial second-half games and failed to contend for a wild-card spot. Young players like Leo Carlsson, Mason McTavish, and Jackson LaCombe made strides, and Lukáš Dostál showed potential as a No. 1 goalie, but defensive issues and inconsistent performances marred their season.
The Boston Bruins (33-39-10) received a dismal D- grade after failing to meet playoff expectations. Despite believing they could contend for the postseason, finishing as a bottom-five club marked a significant disappointment. The team’s actions at the trade deadline, focusing on future prospects, provided some solace.
Grading the Buffalo Sabres (36-39-7) was equally challenging, ultimately landing them an F. Coming into the season with playoff ambitions, the Sabres regressed from their 84-point season last year. Their struggles were exemplified by a 13-game winless streak that dashed any playoff hopes, leaving disappointment as the prevailing sentiment.
The Calgary Flames (41-27-14) received a C- for their efforts. They exceeded expectations thanks to rookie goalie Dustin Wolf and contributions from players like Jonathan Huberdeau and Nazem Kadri. However, they fell short of the playoffs, and their draft situation remains concerning.
With a B+ grade, the Carolina Hurricanes (47-30-5) enjoyed a wild season highlighted by a roster overhaul and a significant trade. Despite doubts, they secured a prominent spot in the Eastern Conference and are positioned to make a playoff run.
The Chicago Blackhawks (25-46-11) were graded a C, remaining in 31st place but showing signs of progress in their rebuild. The roster became younger, and trades like that of Seth Jones opened up new possibilities for the future. Promising young talents like Sam Rinzel and Frank Nazar emerged, paving the way for a more interesting 2025-26 season.
The Colorado Avalanche (49-29-4) received a C grade, as their aspirations surpassed a third-place finish in the Central Division. The general manager reworked the roster significantly, which will be judged based on their playoff performance.
Perhaps surprisingly, the Columbus Blue Jackets (40-33-9) achieved an A- despite missing the playoffs. Following the tragic loss of teammate Johnny Gaudreau, they overachieved and showcased strong individual performances, creating optimism for the future.
Navigating a tough season, the Dallas Stars (50-26-6) earned an A- as they were a top-five team despite injuries. With significant acquisitions, including star Mikko Rantanen, their depth will be crucial in the playoffs.
The Detroit Red Wings (39-35-8) faced a D+ grade after a season that started with playoff aspirations. While they showed some growth, they ultimately ended up missing the playoffs for the ninth consecutive season.
The Edmonton Oilers (48-29-5) received a B- as they fell short of winning their division and entered the playoffs without home-ice advantage. While injuries played a role, many players underperformed, contributing to a disappointing season.
Florida Panthers (47-31-4), the defending champions, secured a B grade. Inconsistent performances and injuries hindered their title defense as they prepare for a challenging first-round matchup against Tampa Bay.
The Los Angeles Kings (48-25-9) achieved an A for surpassing expectations and tying the franchise record for wins. Their veterans led the charge, while their younger players contributed significantly.
The Minnesota Wild (45-30-7) received a B- for their efforts in making the playoffs despite injuries to key players. Their ability to thrive amid adversity speaks to the team’s resilience.
With an A, the Montreal Canadiens (40-31-11) made the playoffs after entering the season with low expectations. Their young roster grew significantly, and valuable lessons were learned throughout the season.
The Nashville Predators (30-44-8) faced an F grade, marking one of the most disappointing seasons in franchise history. Major signings did not pan out, and the team struggled under the leadership of coach Andrew Brunette.
The New Jersey Devils (42-33-7) earned a C+ for returning to the playoffs despite injuries to key players. They made significant progress from last season, but with Jack Hughes out, they face challenges in the playoffs.
The New York Islanders (35-35-12) received a C- for a season plagued by injuries and mediocrity. They finished at .500, resulting in a disappointing outcome without potential for further improvement.
The New York Rangers (39-36-7) failed to meet expectations, earning an F after experiencing significant turmoil and ending as a non-playoff club. Off-ice issues compounded their struggles, leading to a long offseason ahead for the team.
Meanwhile, the Ottawa Senators (45-30-7) received a B+ after finally returning to the playoffs. With improvements in multiple areas, including goal-scoring and defense, they are poised to gain valuable playoff experience.
The Philadelphia Flyers (33-39-10) faced a D+ after following their plan for growth, yet experiencing more negatives than positives. By ensuring a lottery pick, important decisions loom in the offseason as they address glaring issues.
The Pittsburgh Penguins (34-36-12) received a D due to lackluster defensive play and failure to contend for a playoff spot. Despite Sidney Crosby’s continued excellence, the team’s overall inconsistency underwhelmed fans.
The San Jose Sharks (20-50-12) earned a C+ for showing competitiveness while still vying for a top draft pick. With promising young talents, the future looks brighter, but the present remains bleak.
The Seattle Kraken (35-41-6) scored a C- for signs of progress despite falling short in their playoff pursuit. Acquisitions offered potential but did not yield the expected level of improvement while relying heavily on their backup goaltender.
With a B+, the St. Louis Blues (44-30-8) capitalized on a strong finish to secure a playoff position. Coaching changes proved beneficial as they rallied to experience success late in the season.
The Tampa Bay Lightning (47-27-8) received an A for showing that their playoff window remains wide open. Their ability to adapt and maintain a competitive edge positions them as a serious threat in the postseason.
Coming in with a B+ grade, the Toronto Maple Leafs (52-26-4) celebrated their first division title in 25 years, thanks largely to impressive goaltending. While they may not have been dominant, their high-end talent contributed to many close victories.
The Utah Hockey Club (38-31-13) received a C+ for significant improvement over last season. With promising performances from key players, they set the stage for future growth.
Finally, the Vancouver Canucks (38-30-14) earned a D grade for underperforming expectations. A season riddled with injuries and off-ice drama resulted in a disappointing outcome for what was projected to be a contender.
This comprehensive overview paints a picture of the highs and lows experienced by NHL teams during the 2024-25 season as they gear up for the playoffs or begin their offseason preparations.
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