The NHL season opens with a mix of renewed optimism and big questions across Canada’s seven teams, with fantasy managers eyeing contract moves, health forecasts, and workload shifts that could swing points and minutes. From McDavid’s looming extension in Edmonton to Marner’s move in Toronto, every franchise faces decisions that ripple into fantasy lineups and betting models. Rebuilds in Montreal and Vancouver meet fresh coaching and roster tweaks, while Winnipeg and Ottawa push for playoff tempo and stability at the top of the lineup.

Dallas Stars training camp opens with a renewed sense of purpose under Glen Gulutzan, who returns with a new staff, a largely intact core, and a roster fully healthy. After three straight Western Conference finals runs, the mood is: seize the opportunity of a fresh start and prove the reset can finally push Dallas over the hump. Jim Nill emphasizes a new voice, while Gulutzan stresses clear expectations as camp begins.

With Robertson recovering last season and the system potentially evolving under two new assistants, the Stars look to convert optimism into sustained performance. The overarching storyline is a fresh start that leverages health, depth, and strategic tweaks to finally advance in a league that never rewards already-close teams with easy paths.