An analysis has been conducted comparing the NHL’s rebuilding teams to determine which organization might become a Stanley Cup contender in the next decade. The rankings include last season’s teams that did not qualify for the playoffs, regardless of their self-identification as rebuilders. Key factors in these rankings include the quality of young talent within the organizations, the current NHL roster, and the presence of star or potential star players.
The Chicago Blackhawks are still a few years away from a successful turnaround, but they are assembling the necessary components for a contender. The emergence of Connor Bedard as a potential superstar is a significant asset, complemented by a promising group of young defensemen, including Alex Vlasic and Kevin Korchinski. Although they may need more scoring skill, Chicago’s center and defense talents position them well for future free-agent acquisitions.
In Ottawa, the rebuilding process has been slow and frustrating, yet the Senators boast a promising array of young talent, highlighted by elite players like Tim Stützle and Brady Tkachuk. With solid depth at center and a strong defensive lineup, improved goaltending could propel Ottawa into playoff contention.
Anaheim is nurturing a strong group of young players, led by Trevor Zegras, who is currently on the trading block. Other notable talents, such as Leo Carlsson, bolster their forward options, while their defense is strengthening as well. However, the team is still a few years away from significant progress.
The San Jose Sharks may be seen as a surprising candidate in these rankings. Despite needing to significantly improve their standings, they possess valuable elements like top pick Macklin Celebrini and ample cap space, providing a clear but challenging path toward becoming competitive.
New Jersey stands poised to contend, entering the season as a projected playoff team and having previously accumulated 112 points. With star talents like the Hughes brothers, their fifth-place ranking reflects their current roster strength rather than potential, as they have likely finished adding new talent.
Utah, formerly Arizona, has been gradually building since drafting Clayton Keller in 2017. The organization shows promise with quality prospects and young players, though it still seeks a true superstar talent.
Buffalo has long been anticipated as a team on the rise, having drafted high and developed young talent, including prominent blueliners Rasmus Dahlin and Owen Power. However, the Sabres must avoid reverting to previous patterns of inconsistency.
Seattle’s initial expansion success was followed by a reality check. They have promising young centers like Matty Beniers and Shane Wright, but significant growth is needed for the blue-line and overall depth before they can establish themselves as contenders.
Montreal features strong young forwards with No. 1 pick Juraj Slafkovsky showcasing potential. However, they require premium defensemen and need key forwards like Kirby Dach to meet their expectations.
The Minnesota Wild currently have a strong roster, ranked among the best on this list, and a solid farm system. The future of star Kirill Kaprizov, due to free agency in two years, could significantly influence their competitive outlook.
Columbus has struggled with rebuilding since its inception, but Adam Fantilli is seen as a potential superstar who might lead the organization into a brighter future, albeit with continued challenges ahead.
Detroit has a capable NHL team and a robust farm system, but its ranking is lowered due to a lack of elite prospects beyond established players like Dylan Larkin and Moritz Seider.
Philadelphia has made minor advancements, but their draft position reflects a possible downturn, with elite prospect Matvei Michkov needing support from a deeper roster.
St. Louis finds itself in a state of uncertainty, with a decent roster but lacking a clear long-term strategy for growth.
Calgary is entering a challenging phase after previous successes, facing a complex rebuilding journey ahead.
The Pittsburgh Penguins are in tough circumstances following two missed playoff seasons. With a thin farm system, they seem to be clinging to their current core led by Sidney Crosby rather than opting for a complete rebuild, making future prospects uncertain.