What Happened
Sportsnet published its final pre-season NHL power rankings on September 28, 2026, with two bold positive predictions for each of the 32 teams. The piece notes the 2026-27 season opens with five games on Tuesday, only the second September start in league history after 2007, and will feature 84 regular-season games for the first time in over 30 years. Among the predictions, Sportsnet projects Cale Makar to reach 100 points and Jason Robertson to win the Rocket Richard.
Key Details
- 2026-27 season opens with five games on Tuesday, the second September start in NHL history.
- The 2007 September start involved Anaheim and Los Angeles playing two games in England.
- The schedule expands to 84 regular-season games for the first time in over 30 years.
- Sportsnet predicts Cale Makar will post the second 100-point season by a defenceman in 35 years.
- Sportsnet predicts pending-UFA Jason Robertson will win the Rocket Richard.
- Sportsnet predicts Logan Thompson will win the Vezina Trophy.
What It Means
The rankings frame the season ahead around individual breakout and award predictions rather than team standings. Sportsnet's projections touch on contract situations, goaltending battles and award races that will shape the 2026-27 storylines, while the September start and 84-game schedule mark structural changes to the league calendar.
What's Next
The 2026-27 regular season begins Tuesday with five games, launching the 84-game schedule. The predictions will be tested over the coming months as players pursue the milestones and awards Sportsnet projected.