NHL power rankings released as regular season enters final stretch

With the 2025-26 NHL regular season set to conclude on April 16, ESPN has released its latest power rankings, offering a snapshot of team momentum as the fantasy hockey playoffs begin The rankings, based on games through mid-March, gauge the 32 teams as they head into the final weeks of contention before the Stanley Cup playoffs

Due to incomplete source material, specific rankings could not be fully verified. However, reports suggest the Colorado Avalanche hold the top position. Following in the league’s upper echelon are said to be other strong contenders, including the Dallas Stars and Carolina Hurricanes. These teams are reportedly positioned as favorites as the postseason approaches. The rankings also appear to highlight significant movement in the middle of the pack, with teams like the Buffalo Sabres reportedly improving their standing.

Conversely, the bottom of the list is said to feature teams facing significant challenges. The Calgary Flames are reportedly ranked near the end of the list, while the Vancouver Canucks are suggested to be in the 32nd and final spot. This disparity underscores the competitive landscape of the league as the top teams fine-tune their strategies for the playoffs.