NHL’s Biggest Disappointments to Start 2026-27

The Hockey Writers' Ryan Womeldorf highlights early NHL disappointments just one week into the 2026-27 season. The Detroit Red Wings lead the concerns amid ongoing turmoil involving Dylan Larkin and defenseman Simon Edvinsson's trade request. Meanwhile, Dallas Stars forward Jason Robertson and Toronto Maple Leafs rookie Gavin McKenna are both struggling to generate offense after entering the campaign with substantial expectations.

Womeldorf also points to recurring goaltending instability for the Edmonton Oilers following rough outings from Tristan Jarry and Devon Levi. Additionally, the Calgary Flames' young defensive pairing of Simon Nemec and Zayne Parekh has faced early defensive difficulties, each recording a minus-6 rating despite holding heavy minutes.