NHL Teams’ Early-Season Numbers & What Trends May Be Developing

Alex Chauvancy examines early 2026-27 NHL advanced metrics, noting emerging trends across multiple clubs roughly a week and a half into the season. The Philadelphia Flyers and San Jose Sharks struggle with poor five-on-five possession numbers, posting expected goals shares around 32.84 percent and 30.39 percent, respectively. Meanwhile, the Calgary Flames hold a strong 53.86 percent expected goals share but suffer from an unsustainably low 16.67 percent actual goals share due to severe finishing and goaltending slumps.

Chauvancy also highlights concerns for the Winnipeg Jets, New York Rangers, and Minnesota Wild, arguing their winning records mask weak underlying numbers supported largely by strong goaltending. At the top of the metrics, the Carolina Hurricanes lead the league with a 64.69 percent expected goals share, followed closely by the Buffalo Sabres, Florida Panthers, Utah Mammoth, and Tampa Bay Lightning.