Here's a breakdown of how the Metropolitan Division might shake out in the 2025-26 NHL season:

1. Carolina Hurricanes The Carolina Hurricanes are favored to win the Metropolitan Division. They have a strong core of forwards, including Sebastian Aho, Andrei Svechnikov, and Seth Jarvis. The acquisition of Nikolaj Ehlers should add offensive depth. Carolina's defense remains solid, anchored by Jaccob Slavin and bolstered by the addition of K'Andre Miller. Goaltending is the biggest question mark for the Hurricanes. They need Frederik Andersen to perform well. The Hurricanes have been consistently competitive, and many key players are in their prime. The Hurricanes have been a top team in the division for multiple seasons.

2. Washington Capitals

Many expected the Washington Capitals to be as good as they were last season, winning the Metro Division with 111 points. A lot of their success was due to players having better seasons and producing more than expected. Logan Thompson was phenomenal in between the pipes, giving the Capitals their best goaltending, really, since Braden Holtby. Dylan Strome decided to tally a career high 82 points.

3. New Jersey Devils The New Jersey Devils are expected to be a top contender in the Metro Division if they can stay healthy. The Devils added Connor Brown in the offseason, and with Jack Hughes returning, they should be able to get back on track. A good season from goalie Jacob Markstrom would solidify their position. Injuries plagued the Devils last season, hindering their competitiveness.

4. Columbus Blue Jackets

The Columbus Blue Jackets are a team to watch and a potential surprise. They narrowly missed the playoffs last season. The Blue Jackets have a lot of young talent, including Adam Fantilli, Kent Johnson, Dmitri Voronkov, and Kirill Marchenko. To make the playoffs, their offense needs to continue producing, and they need better goaltending, particularly from Elvis Merzlikins.

5. New York Rangers The New York Rangers could bounce back after a disappointing previous season. They signed Vladislav Gavrikov to pair with Adam Fox. The hiring of Mike Sullivan as head coach is expected to improve the team. For the Rangers to succeed, Sullivan needs to find a way to get production from Mika Zibanejad. Gabe Perreault could lead NHL rookies in goals.

6. Philadelphia Flyers The Flyers have the "bones of a solid rebuild" and a good coach in Rick Tocchet, but the roster has too many issues to be truly competitive. Philadelphia's goaltending situation is a major concern and could be the worst in the league. Matvei Michkov could finish among the top 10 in goals.

7. New York Islanders The Islanders are in a difficult position, "too good to rebuild but not good enough to make the playoffs consistently". The arrival of Matthew Schaefer provides some excitement for the future, but another year in "purgatory" is expected.

8. Pittsburgh Penguins The Penguins are rebuilding and could finish with one of the worst records in the league. Despite Sidney Crosby's continued strong play, the team has goaltending problems. Rickard Rakell and Bryan Rust are likely to be traded, further impacting the team's potential. Ville Koivunen could finish among the top five rookies in points.