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NHL teams aiming for postseason after missing last season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 21, 2026, 10:31 AM

Last updated Sep 21, 2026

NHL teams aiming for postseason after missing last season

Summary

As the 2026 NHL season commences, several teams that missed the playoffs last year are looking to improve. The Florida Panthers, Washington Capitals, San Jose Sharks, New Jersey Devils, and Toronto Maple Leafs are highlighted as potential contenders. The Panthers, led by returning stars Aleksander Barkov and Matthew Tkachuk, aim to bounce back after injuries sidelined key players last season. The Capitals have bolstered their roster with new signings, including Alex Tuch and Jordan Kyrou. The Sharks are banking on young talent like Macklin Celebrini and veteran acquisitions to snap their playoff drought. New Jersey focuses on strengthening their wing scoring, while Toronto hopes for a quicker resurgence under new management. Other teams, such as the Nashville Predators and St. Louis Blues, also seek better outcomes this year.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Florida Panthers return key players after missing playoffs last season.
•Washington Capitals add new scorers and retain Alex Ovechkin.
•San Jose Sharks look to end a seven-season playoff drought.
•New Jersey Devils focus on wing scoring improvements.
•Toronto Maple Leafs aim for a quick return to playoffs with new management.

Latest Updates

10:31 AMYahoo Sports — Which NHL teams could make postseason after missing last season?

What they're saying

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There was a six-team turnover in the playoff field from 2025 to 2026. Which NHL teams could make the postseason this year after missing last season?
— Yahoo Sports

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