The 2025 NHL offseason was marked by a rising salary cap and teams making strategic moves through free agency and trades to bolster their rosters. While some teams focused on retaining their key players, others aimed to inject new talent and address specific needs. Here's a look at five teams that appear to have significantly improved their chances for the 2025-26 season:

1. Vegas Golden Knights: The Golden Knights made the biggest splash of the offseason by acquiring Mitch Marner from the Toronto Maple Leafs in a sign-and-trade deal. Marner, coming off a 102-point season, signed an eight-year, $96 million contract with an average annual value of $12 million. The addition of Marner, a two-time first-team all-star and elite playmaker, addresses Vegas's need for help on the flanks and adds another dimension to their already potent offense. Despite the loss of some players, the Golden Knights improved their net wins by 1.9 with the addition of Marner. His arrival in a Sun Belt environment, away from the Toronto media pressure cooker, could also help him overcome his playoff struggles.

2. Carolina Hurricanes: The Hurricanes consistently find ways to improve their roster through free agency and trades. This offseason, they acquired defenseman K'Andre Miller in a trade with the New York Rangers and signed forward Nikolaj Ehlers to a six-year, $51 million contract. Miller brings athleticism and skill to the Hurricanes' defense, while Ehlers, a top free agent, adds much-needed scoring punch to their forward group. The Hurricanes also ensured their depth chart had room to give prospect center Bradly Nadeau an opportunity. The Hurricanes improved their net wins by 2.4. By adding Ehlers and Miller, the Hurricanes have elevated their roster's ceiling and solidified their status as contenders in the Eastern Conference.

3. Anaheim Ducks: The Anaheim Ducks, who posted their best record in six years, were already on an upward trajectory. They made several key additions, including forward Chris Kreider, Mikael Granlund, and Ryan Poehling, and hired coach Joel Quenneville. These moves aim to support the growth of young stars like Jackson LaCombe and Leo Carlsson. The Ducks parted ways with John Gibson and Trevor Zegras. Carlsson and Mason McTavish are expected to anchor the team up the middle for years to come. The Ducks' moves address both their immediate needs and long-term development, positioning them to potentially push for a playoff berth.

4. Utah Mammoth: The Utah Mammoth are looking to build on their first season after relocating from Arizona. They added forward JJ Peterka, who is coming off a 27-goal, 68-point season. The Mammoth also brought in Brandon Tanev and Nate Schmidt. These additions complement a young core that includes Dylan Guenther and Logan Cooley. The Mammoth are aiming to make the playoffs, and with a mix of youth and experience, they could surprise many.

5. Montreal Canadiens: The Canadiens made a significant move by acquiring defenseman Noah Dobson, as well as forward Zach Bolduc. These additions address key needs and add to their strong young core. Although the Canadiens unexpectedly made the playoffs last year, expectations have now increased for them.

These five teams have made notable improvements to their rosters and coaching staff during the 2025 offseason. While success is not guaranteed, these moves suggest that they are well-positioned to compete for playoff spots and potentially make deep runs in the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs.