Key Players to Watch in the NHL's Metropolitan Division for 2026-27

The NHL's Metropolitan Division is gearing up for the 2026-27 season following a tumultuous 2025-26 campaign. The Carolina Hurricanes emerged as champions, winning their first Stanley Cup in two decades, while the Pittsburgh Penguins returned to the playoffs after a three-year absence, only to be eliminated by the Philadelphia Flyers.

As the new season approaches, several players are expected to be pivotal for their teams. Brandon Bussi will take on a more significant role in goal for the Hurricanes after Frederik Andersen's departure. In Pittsburgh, Arturs Silovs is set to lead the Penguins' goaltending after a strong playoff performance. The Flyers are looking for Matvei Michkov to build on his promising start as he enters the final year of his entry-level deal.

Other notable changes include the Washington Capitals, who will begin training camp without veteran John Carlson, and the Columbus Blue Jackets, where Adam Fantilli's contract negotiations continue. The New Jersey Devils hope Jack Hughes can replicate his Olympic success to help them return to playoff contention, while the New York Rangers are counting on Pavel Dorofeyev to deliver after his recent trade.