Three NHL clubs sit at crossroads before the season as the Flyers, Bruins and Kraken plot distinct paths. Philadelphia reshapes with Michkov, Zegras and Dvorak in focus, while goaltending remains a wild card and cap space tightens every move. Boston leans into a one-foot-in, one-foot-out rebuild with new pieces and heavy salaries locked in, testing how far Swayman, Pastrnak and McAvoy can carry them. Seattle injects youth and speed around Beneers and Kakko, betting on a high floor of competitiveness even as they chase a higher ceiling.

Fantasy turns on where scraps become scores: Michkov’s big-promise rookie appeal for PHI, Zegras’s playmaking upside in a Flyers lineup that’s still retooling, Kakko’s fit with Seattle’s grind-and-solve approach, and Beneers stepping into a pivotal role for the Kraken. The big question: which teams and players step forward enough to lift fantasy benches into real upside this season?

As goaltending and depth charts shuffle, managers should map lines, PP exposure and injury risk closely. The Flyers’ scoring talent is tantalizing but thin behind the top units; Boston’s core carries risk if extensions outpace on-ice value; Seattle’s balanced approach could yield steady production from multiple players rather than a singular breakout star. Track who seizes minutes and special-teams roles first.

The Philadelphia Flyers have made significant changes during the offseason, including hiring Rick Tocket as the new head coach. Tocket, a former player and well-regarded coach, aims to implement a more aggressive style of play, focusing on forechecking and physicality. This could significantly benefit young talents like Matvei Michkov, who thrives in a dynamic offensive environment. The Flyers also made a notable addition by acquiring Trevor Zegras from the Anaheim Ducks, a move expected to enhance their scoring potential. However, questions remain about Zegras's ability to adapt to the center position in Philadelphia's lineup, particularly given their current depth issues at that position.

As the Flyers continue their rebuild, the expectations for the upcoming season are modest, with management indicating that a significant turnaround is not anticipated. Moreover, the team is still searching for top-tier goaltending solutions and aims for improved performance on the blue line. The coaching staff will have the challenge of developing younger players while maintaining competitive play. Overall, the Flyers' commitment to a patient rebuild strategy may position them better for future success.

The Anaheim Ducks are navigating a transformative off-season, having made significant roster changes and brought in a new head coach. The team secured goalie Lukas Dostal with a five-year contract, bolstering their confidence in his ability to lead as the number one goaltender. Dostal's previous accolades and franchise records suggest he will be pivotal for the Ducks' future. However, the departure of Trevor Zegras has left fans reeling, as he was expected to be a centerpiece for the team's new direction. Coach Joel Quenneville, with his vast experience, is set to guide this young core, aiming to restore the team's competitive edge.

With several fresh faces and a renewed focus, the Ducks look to develop their promising talent, including Leo Carlson and Jackson Lume. The upcoming season will hinge on how well they adapt under Quenneville's guidance, especially with the anticipation surrounding Mason McTavish, who is expected to solidify his role as a second-line center. The Ducks are at a pivotal juncture, and their ability to rally and perform will be crucial in the competitive landscape of the NHL.

The New York Rangers and Anaheim Ducks recently executed a significant trade involving Chris Kreider, a key player for the Rangers, who will now join the Ducks in exchange for prospect Carrie Terrence and a third-round pick. Kreider's move to Anaheim is seen as a fresh start after a season marred by injury and performance issues. His strengths on the power play and penalty kill, coupled with his physical presence, are expected to bolster the Ducks' struggling special teams, which ranked at the bottom of the league last season.

As for Carrie Terrence, the 20-year-old prospect, he has shown promise during his time with the Eerie Otters and should have a clearer path to playing time with the Rangers, potentially allowing him to develop into a solid NHL player. Both teams appear to be positioning themselves for a competitive future, with the Ducks leaning towards a veteran presence while the Rangers focus on youth and rebuilding. Overall, this trade could significantly impact both franchises moving forward.