Top 10 NHL teams right now

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11 March 2026 at 18:18

The NHL trade deadline was March 6^th, and a handful of players headed to playoff-bound teams. With less than 20 games remaining, certain teams are solidifying their playoff standings, while others are making a final push to claim a wild-card spot. Both conferences wild-card spots will see movement in the final week of the season. As the 2025-2026 season enters the regular season twilight, here are the top 10 teams in the NHL right now.

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10. New York Islanders

Jan 29, 2026; New York, New York, USA; New York Islanders right wing Max Shabanov (49) and New York Islanders center Kyle MacLean (32) celebrates the goal by New York Islanders defenseman Carson Soucy (4) against the New York Rangers during the second period at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Schneidler-Imagn Images

New York has struggled to produce offensively. It’s been the issue throughout the regular season. The Islanders’ defensemen and goaltenders must be at their best in the playoffs.

9. Montreal Canadiens

Montreal’s offense continues to be one of the NHL’s best. They are the top three in goals scored per game. The one glaring issue is defense.

8. Pittsburgh Penguins

Pittsburgh is a team to be reckoned with in the playoffs. The Penguins’ veteran squad has their eyes set on the Stanley Cup Finals. Pittsburgh needs a healthy return from Sidney Crosby.

7. Detroit Red Wings

Mar 4, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Red Wings center Dylan Larkin (71) skates with the puck in the first period against the Vegas Golden Knights at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

Detroit added offense at the trade deadline. It was the team’s biggest need, and they were active on Friday. Still, the Red Wings’ defense will be heavily relied upon in the playoffs.

6. Buffalo Sabres

They are hot and pushing for the top spot in the Atlantic Division. It’s becoming a two-team race between Buffalo and Tampa Bay. Which team will be the first to slip down the stretch?

5. Tampa Bay Lightning

They’re doing their best to hold onto the Atlantic Division lead. Even if they finish second, the Lightning will be a tough matchup in the playoffs. They are one of the league’s best on both ends of the ice.

4. Minnesota Wild

Mar 1, 2026; Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Wild defenseman Quinn Hughes (43) plays the puck against the St. Louis Blues in the first period at Grand Casino Arena. Mandatory Credit: Matt Blewett-Imagn Images

The Wild will be a dark horse to reach the Western Conference Finals. If it weren’t for Colorado and Dallas, Minnesota would be the conference’s best team. The team is as confident as anyone in the NHL.

3. Dallas Stars

Dallas entered Friday undefeated in its last 10 games. They’re on a heater and at the perfect time. They are within 10 points of Colorado for the top spot in the Central Division.

2. Carolina Hurricanes

Carolina has been the Eastern Conference’s top team throughout the season. They are one of the few teams that have had success offensively and defensively. It will be a letdown if they do not reach the conference finals.