Noah Philp finally scored his first NHL goal, completing a remarkable return from retirement. The Canmore native battled back from considering hanging up the skates to carve a role with Edmonton, assisted by Kasperi Kapanen on a crisp fourth‑line sequence. Leon Draisaitl iced the win with an empty‑net goal as the Oilers dominated Vancouver 3–1, outshooting the Canucks 37–15.

Philp’s journey from undrafted kid to University of Alberta standout, Bakersfield Condors, and back to the NHL spotlight offers a compelling fantasy angle: value in deeper line roles, opportunistic scoring, and the potential for a steady two-way contribution as he trims his game to the league’s pace. The Oilers leaned on the line and got a timely payoff.

Healthy Vancouver roster and a fresh bench outlook spark optimism for a playoff push. Demko returns from knee rehab, Boeser and Garland lock in long-term deals, and Pettersson aims to rebound after a down year under a new coach, Adam Foote, after Tocchet’s exit. Kane adds bite up front, while Hoglander eyes a return from injury as Vancouver leans on internal growth and a steadier defensive approach. Season opener vs. Calgary looms as a test.

Edmonton maintains the Pacific’s elite status through McDavid and Draisaitl, even as goaltending uncertainty lingers and McDavid’s contract year weighs on the room. Vegas’ addition of Mitch Marner raises the bar for the conference, while Anaheim’s youth movement, led by Dostal and a budding core, threatens to roughen the chase. Vancouver and Seattle stay in the mix amid coaching shifts, with Calgary and San Jose watching the margins as the West gears up for a high-stakes, star-driven race.

Predictions hinge on Ducks’ veteran help and Canucks’ health, while Oilers’ and Knights’ rosters dictate fantasy value across the division. The league braces for a winter where every top line can swing series and where goaltending depth could decide playoff fates. It’s a season of opportunity and risk for fantasy managers eyeing the West’s power brokers.