Edmonton face a high-wire season with heavy turnover, McDavid anchored but surrounded by uncertainty as new pieces like Savoy and Walman try to lift a volatile lineup. Vegas and LA lean on depth and star power, while Vancouver, Anaheim, Seattle and San Jose loom as potential wild cards in a tougher West. Over/under projections tilt Oilers under 106.5 and Knights around mid‑100s, with health and in-season moves shaping the race.

The Calgary Flames are navigating a quiet offseason, focusing on necessary moves that differ from fan expectations. A key player, Rasmus Andersson, remains amidst speculation, with uncertainty surrounding his future with the team. Backup goaltending has been a concern, and while Dan Vladar's performance was inconsistent, new signings bring hope. The team is contemplating a path towards rebuilding, potentially embracing a strategy that could lead to higher draft picks. Jonathan Huberdeau's contract is under scrutiny, deemed one of the worst based on performance relative to pay, with little chance for trade.

Additionally, the Flames need to address imbalances in their forward roster and are encouraged to integrate youth while considering trades for veterans like Blake Coleman. The focus on development and long-term strategy appears to be the priority as the Flames prepare for the upcoming season.

The Calgary Flames are navigating a tumultuous offseason, hoping to shake off last season's disappointment of missing the playoffs despite a solid performance. The team finished with 96 points but failed to secure a playoff spot, leading to discussions around their core players and future direction. Rasmus Andersson's potential trade looms as a significant topic, as fans express urgency for a resolution ahead of the new season to avoid distractions. The Flames' management has faced criticism for a lack of impactful moves in a weak free agency period, which has left the team in a state of perpetual mediocrity.

Dustin Wolf emerges as a bright spot for the Flames, showing promise as a young goaltending talent. After a strong season, finishing second in Calder Trophy voting and posting impressive stats, Wolf's development will be crucial for Calgary's aspiration to return to playoff contention. Discussions around integrating young players like Zayne Parekh into the lineup reflect a dual focus on rebuilding while aiming for immediate success. The Flames must balance roster changes with the urgency of improving their competitiveness in a challenging Pacific Division.

Uncertainties loom for Bowen Byram, Eric Karlsson, and Rasmus Andersson as the NHL season approaches. Byram's arbitration with the Buffalo Sabres raises questions about his future, with potential trades on the horizon as the team seeks to alleviate a defensive logjam while enhancing their offensive lineup.

Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Penguins appear to be in a rebuilding phase, with Karlsson potentially seeking a trade to escape an underwhelming situation. The Detroit Red Wings could emerge as a contender for his services, given their aspirations to bolster their blue line and make a playoff run. Lastly, Andersson's final year with the Calgary Flames could lead to a trade deadline move if the team fails to make significant progress this season.