Chicago's preseason dress rehearsal showed a fast, competitive Hawks group that can push pace and grind for greasy goals, even as a 3-2 loss to Minnesota underlined areas to tighten like the power play. Bedard piled up shot volume and elicited optimism around his growth, while Nazar, Slaggert, and the bottom six gave Chicago tangible depth. The PK and five-on-five finish remain work-in-progress, but the vibe is brighter than last season as opening-night approaches.

Atlantic divisional depth, big-money extensions, and bold predictions headline the season preview. Florida Panthers lock in eight-year, $9M-per-season for a sturdy defender, signaling a new cap reality that could reshape down-ballot moves as the cap continues to rise. Edmonton Oilers lock in Nabllock for three years while McDavid edges toward a $20M annual cap hit, forcing fantasy managers to rejigger around elite talent and supporting casts. The Panthers–Lightning rivalry chips at preseason action, underscoring the value of defense and goaltending in seasonal and weekly lineups.

From Winnipeg and Anaheim to Columbus and San Jose, the panel eyes surprises and breakout candidates like Fantilli, while aging stars such as Ovechkin and Crosby loom against rebuilding teams. With coaching stability, development trajectories, and cap discipline shaping rosters, fantasy players will chase value in depth, keeper leagues, and live-betting angles as a dynamic season unfolds.