NHL 2025-26 Power Rankings: Week 8 — Trade Rumors and Playoff Shifts

Overview

Week 8 of the 2025–26 NHL season has brought significant movement in the Power Rankings. With trade rumors swirling and playoff races tightening, several teams are making bold statements while others struggle to find consistency.

Top Contenders

1. New York Rangers

The Rangers remain the most balanced team in the league, showcasing elite defense and a lethal power play. Goaltender Igor Shesterkin continues to anchor their success, while Artemi Panarin and Alexis Lafrenière keep the offense dynamic.

2. Dallas Stars

Dallas holds steady near the top thanks to strong performances from Jason Robertson and Miro Heiskanen. Their depth and disciplined play make them a serious Cup contender as midseason approaches.

3. Florida Panthers

Florida’s aggressive forecheck and speed have put them in prime position to dominate the Eastern Conference. Matthew Tkachuk’s leadership and goal-scoring ability continue to drive the team’s momentum.

Rising Teams

Detroit Red Wings

Detroit’s rebuild shows real promise. Lucas Raymond and Moritz Seider have stepped up, transforming the Red Wings into a credible postseason threat earlier than expected.

Nashville Predators

Under Coach Andrew Brunette, Nashville’s fast-paced offense has revived their playoff hopes. Filip Forsberg is leading the charge with steady scoring and veteran poise.

Struggling Franchises

San Jose Sharks

The Sharks remain at the bottom, plagued by defensive breakdowns and a lack of scoring depth. Rebuilding continues, with young prospects getting critical ice time.

Montreal Canadiens

Despite flashes of promise from Cole Caufield, Montreal’s inconsistency and injuries have kept them locked outside the playoff picture.

Trade Market Buzz

The trade rumor mill is intensifying as contenders look to bolster rosters before the deadline. Several big names have surfaced, sparking speculation around potential blockbuster moves that could reshape playoff battles.

“Teams know this window is narrow. Expect aggressive moves before the trade freeze,” an NHL executive reportedly said.

Final Thoughts

With the standings evolving weekly, every game now carries weight. The next few weeks are set to reveal which teams can handle the pressure and which will falter heading into the midseason grind.

Author’s Summary:
Week 8 reflects a defining phase of the NHL season, marked by fierce competition, trade intrigue, and shifting odds in the chase for the Stanley Cup.

The Hockey Writers — 2025-12-01