Avalanche, Panthers begin NHL season with high expectations

The 2026-27 NHL season kicks off with the Colorado Avalanche and Florida Panthers under significant pressure. The Avalanche, having won the Stanley Cup in 2022, seeks to overcome recent playoff disappointments, while the Panthers aim for another title after acquiring Brady Tkachuk. The Eastern Conference will see strong competition, particularly from the defending champion Carolina Hurricanes. The league's initial power rankings position the Avalanche and Panthers at the top, highlighting their talented rosters and championship aspirations as the season begins.

• 2:03 PMCBS NHL — NHL Power Rankings: Avalanche, Panthers enter new season with Stanley Cup aspirations