NHL teams evaluate slow starts as season approaches one-month mark

As the 2026-27 NHL season begins its second month, teams like the Washington Capitals and Colorado Avalanche face challenges. Capitals star Alex Ovechkin has only one goal and three assists in 11 games, marking his worst start ever. The Avalanche, currently at 6-5-1 after finishing first last season, seek improved depth scoring. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Flyers and Pittsburgh Penguins struggle near the bottom of the Eastern Conference. The Flyers are 0-6-3 to start the season, while the Penguins deal with injuries to key players. Additionally, Minnesota Wild defenseman Quinn Hughes is still without a contract extension while maintaining a strong performance early in the season.

• 2:01 PMYahoo Sports — NHL season hits one month. Is it time for teams to panic?