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Way-too-early NHL Power Rankings: Each team's earl...
Key takeaways
- While the team and its fans continue the celebration, it's time to look ahead to the fall with our way-too-early edition of the NHL Power Rankings.
- In addition to the rankings, we've identified the key early-offseason storyline for each club, with the NHL draft on June 26-27 and free agency opening on July 1.
- How we rank: A panel of ESPN hockey commentators, analysts, reporters and editors sends in a 1-32 poll based on their predictions for the 2026-27 season.
Why this matters: a sports story that could shift standings, legacies, or fan conversations.
ESPN Illustration ESPN staff Jun 14, 2026, 11:00 PM ETMultiple Authors Email Print Open Extended Reactions The Carolina Hurricanes are 2026 Stanley Cup champions!
While the team and its fans continue the celebration, it's time to look ahead to the fall with our way-too-early edition of the NHL Power Rankings.
In addition to the rankings, we've identified the key early-offseason storyline for each club, with the NHL draft on June 26-27 and free agency opening on July 1.
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