Early NHL Worries: Ranking the Most Alarming Slow Starts
The article examines several NHL clubs that have begun the season poorly despite expectations of competing for playoff spots. It highlights Philadelphia's historically weak underlying numbers and Buffalo's solid process despite a middling record, while also listing other teams. The piece weighs which early struggles are most concerning and which are likely to fade.
Philadelphia's 0-5-3 record accompanies last-place 34.3 percent expected-goal share. The club concedes 3.3 expected goals per sixty and creates only 1.7 at five-on-five. Last year's playoff run may have exceeded underlying form, aided by a weak Metropolitan Division. Rick Tocchet's position is not currently viewed as threatened.
Buffalo sits 3-3-1 but owns a 56.6 xG%, seventh leaguewide, with 2.7 expected goals for and 2.00 against per sixty. Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen's .850 save rate and four goals allowed above expected contrast with his .910 mark last season. Los Angeles is 0-3-2 with an aging roster.
Early struggles may shape fan confidence, media narratives, and ticket or merchandise interest in affected cities. Players and coaches could face added scrutiny, while rival clubs might benefit if playoff races tighten later. For Buffalo, strong underlying play may keep hope alive; Philadelphia's historically poor start could test patience. These are early trends, so social and economic effects remain uncertain and likely modest unless struggles persist.