NHL Power Rankings: Each team's biggest shock of 2026-27 - ESPN

A bit over two weeks into the 2026-27 NHL season, teams are approaching the 10-game point.

While some teams have performed at expectation, there has been no shortage of surprises — both good and bad — on the individual and club-wide level.

So as part of our latest update to the ESPN NHL Power Rankings, we've identified the biggest shock of the season for each team.

How we rank: A panel of ESPN hockey commentators, analysts, reporters and editors sends in a 1-32 poll based on the games through Wednesday. Those ballots are combined to come up with the rankings you see below.

Note: Previous ranking for each team refers to the previous edition, published on Oct. 9. Points percentages are through Thursday's games.

Previous ranking: 8
Points percentage: 81.25%

While the Canes' spot near the top of the standings (and as the No. 1 team here) isn't too surprising, their poor injury luck is. In just the past week, captain Jordan Staal (torn calf muscle) and Taylor Hall (upper body) were lost; Staal will miss one to two months, while Rod Brind'Amour commented that it «doesn't look good» for Hall.

Next seven days: @ WPG (Oct. 17), @ CGY (Oct. 18), @ VAN (Oct. 20), @ EDM (Oct. 22)

Previous ranking: 3
Points percentage: 77.78%

The Golden Knights continue to roll on the ice — but there are now fewer people in the stands watching. Oct. 8 was the first time the Knights didn't sell out a home game in franchise history, breaking a nine-year streak (and coming off a Stanley Cup Final appearance).

Next seven days: vs. PIT (Oct. 17), vs. TB (Oct. 20), @ STL (Oct. 22)

Previous ranking: 6
Points percentage: 78.57%

It's no surprise that Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl are among the top scorers in the league. What might be shocking to some is