NHL Power Rankings: Unsung Heroes Take Center Stage as the Wild Crack the Top 5
Imagine the NHL as a grand Thanksgiving feast, where every dish plays a crucial role in creating a memorable experience. Just as a missing side dish can leave a void in your holiday meal, an NHL team’s success relies on more than just its star players. This week, we’re shifting the spotlight to the often-overlooked contributors—the side dishes that make the main course shine. But here’s where it gets controversial: while some teams have found their perfect pairings, others are still searching for that winning recipe. Let’s dive into the rankings and uncover the unsung heroes who are making a difference.
1. Colorado Avalanche, 17-1-5
Last week, the Avalanche held their ground at the top, and Sam Malinski is a big reason why. Initially doubted for his offensive potential, Malinski has silenced critics by ranking in the top 10 among defensemen in Offensive Rating and top 20 in points per 60 minutes. His defensive play has been equally impressive, proving that sometimes, even the most unexpected players can become vital ingredients in a team’s success.
2. Dallas Stars, 15-5-4
Miro Heiskanen’s Norris-worthy season is undeniable, but Esa Lindell’s role as his partner in crime cannot be overlooked. Lindell’s mega-minutes and stellar defensive results, including a top-10 Defensive Rating, make him the gravy to Heiskanen’s turkey—essential yet often underappreciated.
3. Tampa Bay Lightning, 14-7-2
With their defense in disarray, J.J. Moser has stepped up as the Lightning’s savior. Leading Tampa Bay’s defenders in xG percentage and goals percentage, Moser is the cranberry sauce that’s holding this meal together, proving that sometimes, the side dish becomes the main attraction.
4. Carolina Hurricanes, 14-7-2
K’Andre Miller’s resurgence is a testament to his resilience. After a tough 2024-25 season, Miller is scoring at a career-high rate and delivering a 57% xG at five-on-five. His ability to handle tough minutes in Jaccob Slavin’s absence is the stuffing that’s keeping the Hurricanes’ feast from falling apart.
5. Minnesota Wild, 13-7-4
Marcus Johansson’s 20 points in 24 games are nothing short of remarkable for a 35-year-old. Once an afterthought, Johansson is now the mashed potatoes of the Wild’s lineup—simple yet indispensable.
6. Anaheim Ducks, 14-8-1
While the young stars and new coach grab headlines, Troy Terry is the quiet achiever. Scoring at a 93-point pace, Terry is the green bean casserole of the Ducks—unassuming but essential to the team’s flavor.
7. New Jersey Devils, 15-7-1
Brett Pesce’s absence is like a Thanksgiving without gravy—noticeably incomplete. His ability to limit shots and quality chances increases the Devils’ goal differential by 1.35 per 60 minutes. When he returns, the Devils’ feast will finally feel whole.
8. Washington Capitals, 13-9-2
Matt Roy’s second season with the Capitals has been a redemption story. After a disappointing debut, Roy now ranks fifth in Defensive Rating, proving that even the most criticized players can become the mac and cheese of their team—comforting and reliable.
9. Ottawa Senators, 12-7-4
Michael Amadio is the Senators’ secret weapon. With seven goals from the bottom six and an expected goal share over 60%, he’s the dinner roll that complements the main course perfectly.
10. Los Angeles Kings, 11-6-6
Corey Perry, at an age where dial-up internet was still a thing, leads the Kings in goals per 60 with 1.74. While it’s not ideal for a team’s oldest player to be its top scorer, Perry’s performance is a reminder that sometimes, the most seasoned side dishes can still steal the show.
And this is the part most people miss: As we celebrate these unsung heroes, it’s worth asking—are we giving enough credit to the players who make the stars shine? Or are we too focused on the main course to notice the sides that complete the meal? Let’s spark a debate: Which player on your favorite team is the most underrated side dish, and why? Share your thoughts in the comments below!