Fifteen NHL players are exceeding expectations this season, showcasing breakout performances, leadership growth, and surprising consistency that elevate their teams’ success.
Leo Carlsson (11 points in 9 games)
Carlsson has quickly adjusted to NHL pace, showing poise and intelligence beyond his years.
His ability to control play through the middle and make mature decisions with the puck makes him stand out. He’s blending skill, size, and vision seamlessly, already looking like a true franchise cornerstone for Anaheim.
Logan Cooley (12 points in 11 games)
Cooley’s creativity and fearlessness with the puck have translated beautifully from college to the NHL.
His skating is elite, and he constantly drives offense through transition. He’s proving he can produce at a high level even against top competition, energizing the Coyotes’ attack and giving fans a glimpse of the future.
Alex Newhook (8 points in 11 games)
Newhook has found his rhythm in Montreal, using his speed and offensive instincts to create chances consistently.
Given more responsibility, he’s thriving with increased ice time and confidence. His versatility allows him to play center or wing effectively, and his chemistry with young teammates has elevated the Canadiens’ forward depth.
Ivan Demidov (9 points in 11 games)
Demidov’s debut season is turning heads thanks to his electric skill set and hockey IQ.
He’s dynamic off the rush, fearless in tight spaces, and capable of making highlight-reel plays look routine. His creativity and quick hands bring life to Chicago’s offense and give fans optimism for the rebuild’s success.
Trevor Zegras (9 points in 9 games)
After an inconsistent start last year, Zegras has rediscovered his flair and focus in Philly.
He’s maturing as a playmaker, picking better moments for creativity while still dazzling fans with his skill. His improved defensive effort and leadership signal a more complete player emerging in Philadelphia’s exciting young core.
Brad Marchand (11 points in 10 games)
Even after years in the league, Marchand keeps defying expectations.
As a leader for the Panthers, he’s elevated his game, combining relentless energy with disciplined leadership. His scoring touch remains sharp, but it’s his consistency and drive that impress most. He continues to set the tone for a Florida team refusing to decline.
Winnipeg Jets v Colorado Avalanche - Game Four
Lehkonen’s impact goes beyond the scoresheet. He’s a relentless forechecker, dependable defensively, and always in the right place offensively.
With injuries challenging Colorado’s lineup, Lehkonen has stepped up with timely goals and elite work ethic. He exemplifies the kind of versatile, detail-oriented player every contender needs.
Seth Jarvis (11 points in 9 games)
Jarvis is emerging as one of Carolina’s most consistent forwards. His relentless motor, smart positioning, and finishing ability have turned him into a top-six mainstay.
He’s showing growth in every aspect — from puck battles to power-play execution — proving he’s not just skilled, but dependable in crucial moments.
Cole Caufield (13 points - 9 goals - in 11 games)
Caufield’s game is evolving beyond just his shot. While still lethal as a sniper, he’s added playmaking layers and improved defensive awareness.
His chemistry with Suzuki remains strong, and his effort without the puck shows maturity. He’s becoming a complete top-line winger who can influence the game in multiple ways.
Matthew Knies (13 points in 10 games)
Knies brings a power-forward edge the Leafs have long needed. His combination of size, strength, and hands makes him a force on the forecheck and around the net.
He’s earning top-six minutes with consistent effort and physical play, giving Toronto valuable secondary scoring and playoff-style intensity early in the season.
Jack Eichel (19 points in 10 games)
Eichel’s two-way dominance continues to shine. He’s balancing elite offense with disciplined defensive play, becoming one of the league’s most complete centers.
His confidence and leadership have grown since winning the Stanley Cup, and he’s driving Vegas’s attack with pace, precision, and the hunger of a player still ascending.
Nick Schmaltz (17 points in 10 games)
Schmaltz has quietly become one of the most efficient forwards in the league. His chemistry with Keller and Cooley is undeniable, and his ability to make smart plays in transition drives Utah’s offense.
He’s combining elite hockey sense with improved consistency, showing he can produce like a true top-liner.
Pavel Dorofeyev (10 points - 9 goals - in 10 games)
Dorofeyev has seized his opportunity with Vegas, showing scoring instincts and creativity that were previously hidden in limited minutes.
He’s reading plays well, finishing chances with confidence, and earning trust from the coaching staff. His rise from depth forward to reliable contributor adds even more depth to the champion roster.
Will Smith (9 points in 10 games)
Smith has been a bright spot in a rebuilding Sharks lineup. His playmaking vision and agility make him dangerous on every shift.
Despite his youth, he plays with confidence and patience, finding seams and generating offense from seemingly nothing. He’s becoming a foundational piece for San Jose’s long-term resurgence.
Macklin Celebrini (16 points in 10 games)
Celebrini is proving why he was a top draft pick. His composure, intelligence, and two-way maturity are rare for his age. He’s contributing offensively while also handling defensive responsibilities against veterans.
His strong compete level and calm under pressure make him the heartbeat of the Sharks’ rebuild.