Eight early-season stats that actually matter in 2026-27 NHL season

Matt Larkin of Daily Faceoff breaks down eight early-season NHL statistics that provide meaningful insight into player and team performance. Among the notable individual numbers, Ottawa Senators goaltender Linus Ullmark leads the league in goals saved above expected, while Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Darren Raddysh paces the NHL in high-speed shots between 90 and 100 mph despite an early scoring slump.

Larkin also highlights concerning team metrics, noting the winless Philadelphia Flyers possess the league's worst expected goal differential and the Los Angeles Kings sit last in shooting percentage. Furthermore, St. Louis Blues forward Mason McTavish leads the NHL in individual expected goals per 60 minutes at 5-on-5, while Vancouver Canucks forward Elias Pettersson ranks eighth overall in hits.