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.