As the 2021-22 NHL season is well underway, it’s never too early to start looking ahead to the future. With that in mind, let’s take a look at some early predictions for the 2023-24 NHL season.
One team that is sure to be in the mix is the Vegas Golden Knights. The Golden Knights have been one of the most successful expansion teams in NHL history, reaching the Stanley Cup Final in their inaugural season and making the playoffs in each of their first four seasons. However, they will face some stiff competition in the Western Conference.
The Colorado Avalanche are a team on the rise and could be a major threat to the Golden Knights in 2023-24. Led by superstar Nathan MacKinnon, the Avalanche have a talented young core that includes Cale Makar and Bowen Byram. If they can continue to develop and add some key pieces, they could be a force to be reckoned with.
Another team to watch out for is the Edmonton Oilers. With Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl leading the way, the Oilers have one of the most dynamic duos in the league. If they can improve their depth and get better goaltending, they could be a serious contender in 2023-24.
The Minnesota Wild are another team that could make some noise in the Western Conference. They have a solid group of young players, including Kirill Kaprizov, Kevin Fiala, and Joel Eriksson Ek, and a strong defense led by Ryan Suter and Jared Spurgeon. If they can add some scoring depth, they could be a dangerous team in 2023-24.
Of course, there are always surprises in the NHL, and there will likely be some teams that come out of nowhere to make a run at the Stanley Cup. But as of now, it looks like the Golden Knights will have their work cut out for them in the Western Conference in 2023-24.
