The Day of the Dead is nearly upon us. This is a perfect moment to signal everyone to be a little more reserved — similar to how stores should think twice about prematurely decorating for Christmas before November concludes.
Those who follow ice hockey are compelled to exercise restraint until Turkey Day in late November to truly start considering which clubs are poised to qualify for the postseason — and which teams might be a bit overdone.
Nevertheless, in the spirit of this eerie occasion, this week’s Team Evaluations incorporate a Halloween outfit or persona for each of the league’s 32 teams.
Ranking Methodology: A group of ESPN ice hockey authorities, experts, journalists, and editors submit their individual rankings from 1-32 based on contests through Wednesday, culminating in our standings.
Note: Prior ranking signifies the team’s placement in the preceding edition, released on Oct. 24. Point averages are reflective of games played through Thursday; all other metrics are current as of Wednesday’s games, unless otherwise specified.
Previous ranking: 1
Points percentage: 72.7%
Costume: A chocolate treat
Time for a breather! The Avalanche are in full force once more. Backup netminder Scott Wedgewood has enjoyed a fantastic season kickoff, Nathan MacKinnon has gathered 17 points in 11 outings, Cale Makar is the highest-scoring defenseman with 15 points … does this come as a surprise?
Furthermore, a chocolate bar is just the sort of sweet MacKinnon wouldn’t partake in, adding extra flair to this costume selection.
Next seven days: @ VGK (Oct. 31), @SJ (Nov. 1), vs. TB (Nov. 4)
Previous ranking: 4
Points percentage: 72.7%
Costume: Members of law enforcement
Nico Hischier has been containing key opposing players thus far this season; aside from a couple of instances, he has played a role in keeping figures like Nikita Kucherov, Sam Reinhart, Leon Draisaitl and Auston Matthews from lighting up the scoreboard when they square off against the Devils.
Next seven days: @ LA (Nov. 1), @ ANA (Nov. 2), vs. MTL (Nov. 6)
Previous ranking: 2
Points percentage: 75%
Costume: A two-sided piece of currency
The Vegas Golden Knights and their followers have led a charmed path, highlighted by four division championships, two appearances in the ultimate series, and one championship on the franchise’s record.
Starting with a 6-1-3 record and Jack Eichel emerging as a preliminary favorite for the Hart Trophy (while leading in total points), the club finds itself in favorable circumstances.
Next seven days: vs. COL (Oct. 31), vs. DET (Nov. 4), vs. TB (Nov. 6)
Previous ranking: 9
Points percentage: 72.7%
Costume: A covered carriage
Mainly due to their current state. Furthermore, should we celebrate with a banner at the Delta Center in honor of Tusky, given the team’s strong beginning during his tenure?
Next seven days: vs. TB (Nov. 2), @ BUF (Nov. 4), @ TOR (Nov. 5)
Previous ranking: 8
Points percentage: 72.7%
Costume: Kelleran Beq
The character portrayed by Ahmed Best — who also famously played the now redeemed Jar Jar Binks — rescued one of the most iconic figures in the Star Wars realm. In “The Mandalorian,” Grogu (known as “Baby Yoda” to some) was endangered during Order 66. Grogu would have likely faced a grim end if not for Kelleran Beq, who valiantly saved him, akin to a timely glove save in sudden-death overtime, spiriting him away to safety.
It was an impressive rescue … just like Cole Caulfield, who boasts three game-winning goals in overtime after 11 appearances this season. He also surpassed the team record for overtime goals scored in a Canadiens uniform (11).
Next seven days: vs. OTT (Nov. 1), vs. PHI (Nov. 4), @ NJ (Nov. 6)
Previous ranking: 5
Points percentage: 72.7%
Costume: Steve Buscemi in “30 Rock”
Greetings, fellow youngsters! The Winnipeg Jets are the most experienced team, with an average age of 30.7 (the only team in their 30s).
However, the “Winnip-unc” Jets are demonstrating that experience counts, as they have begun with a 7-3-0 record and a flawless 4-0-0 when on the road.
Next seven days: vs. PIT (Nov. 1), @ LA (Nov. 4)
Previous ranking: 10
Points percentage: 75%
Costume: Benjamin Button
What year is it? Speculation was that the Penguins would not make the playoffs and would be positioned low enough in the standings to potentially secure the top selection to acquire Gavin McKenna?
The Penguins initiated the season at (check notes) 7-2-2? How is this feasible? Notably, Evgeni Malkin, in a contract year at 39, has amassed 16 points, Sidney Crosby has secured 15, and Justin Brazeau is maintaining a point-per-game rate. In addition, the team is benefiting from stellar goaltending from Arturs Silovs and Tristan Jarry.
While some envisioned Crosby concluding the season with the Canadiens or Avalanche, the Penguins appear to be aging backward. The hockey community might witness No. 87 once again lifting the trophy while wearing the Penguins’ colors.
Next seven days: @ WPG (Nov. 1), @ TOR (Nov. 3), vs. WSH (Nov. 6)
Previous ranking: 7
Points percentage: 72.7%
Costume: Dexter Morgan
The original “Dexter” series’ first four installments are widely celebrated as some of the best in current TV. Although the show declined, loyal fans persisted, optimistic about a turnaround that never materialized. The finale deeply upset viewers who had devoted significant time to the series.
Later came other productions in the Dexter environment … which were not poorly received, reviving fans’ fervor for Dexter. New performers augmented the cast; Peter Dinklage and Neil Patrick Harris were welcomed additions!
The Red Wings’ playoff drought has extended many seasons (since 2016), though they have shown promise this year. Will this be the time the Yzerplan culminates and Hockeytown celebrates another playoff game?
Next seven days: @ ANA (Oct. 31), @ SJ (Nov. 2), @ VGK (Nov. 4)
Previous ranking: 3
Points percentage: 70%
Costume: LA Knight
Indeed! This is the case with wrestling superstar LA Knight: admired, accomplished, and even seemingly poised to become a champion. But advancement seems elusive. He always appears one move from making it to the final level.
In recent seasons, Carolina has faced a comparable predicament. Specifically, Nikolaj Ehlers needs to overcome obstacles in 2025-26. Despite signing a free-agent agreement during the offseason to offset the Canes’ scoring concerns, he has yet to score a goal and has accumulated only three assists after nine matches.
Next seven days: @ BOS (Nov. 1), @ NYR (Nov. 4), vs. MIN (Nov. 6)
Previous ranking: 6
Points percentage: 60%
Costume: Ovi the Rapper
Admittedly, I might have developed something more creative, but the Capitals presented exceptional arrival attire for Alex Ovechkin’s 1,500th game, so let’s sustain that momentum.
Ovi briefly ventured into rap roughly 13 years prior, and the ensemble returned because of the Great Eight’s teammates. This notion earns an emphatic triumph — the Stars deprived us of Ovechkin reaching his 900th goal milestone on “Frozen Frenzy” night!
Next seven days: vs. NYI (Oct. 31), @ BUF (Nov. 1), vs. STL (Nov. 5), @ PIT (Nov. 6)
Previous ranking: 20
Points percentage: 63.6%
Costume: A motorcycle club
Thomas Harley recently agreed to an eight-year, $10.587 million annually, deal with the Stars, securing the young defenseman for the long haul as part of one of the most intimidating core groupings.
This year, the 24-year-old has been playing for just over 23 minutes on average, and has eight points across 10 games.
Next seven days: @ FLA (Nov. 1), vs. EDM (Nov. 4), vs. ANA (Nov. 6)
Previous ranking: 17
Points percentage: 65%
Costume: Nirvana from Sept. 1991
“Nevermind” marked Nirvana’s sophomore studio album. Initially, their debut release, “Bleach,” received minimal publicity; however, the release of “Smells like Teen Spirit” forever transformed music. Grunge epitomized the 1990s. Flannel garments were a ubiquitous style!
The Kraken are taking the season by storm much like a frenzied riff from Kurt Cobain, starting with a 5-2-3 record and holding second place in the division. They have yet to experience a defeat at home within the Emerald City. Is this a sign of remarkable accomplishments to come in Seattle?
Next seven days: vs. NYR (Nov. 1), vs. CHI (Nov. 3), vs. SJ (Nov. 5)
Previous ranking: 15
Points percentage: 54.2%
Costume: Medical Professional
Zach Hyman is approaching his return to action after sustaining a wrist injury in the Western Conference finals this past spring. The anticipated timeline for his return has shifted back by a week; thus, we remain watchful for a significant offensive contributor for the Oilers.
Connor McDavid had a more measured commencement (relative to his customary standards), obtaining his initial goal in his seventh contest and only one additional goal until Oct. 28, when he tallied two. Reintegrating his veteran linemate is anticipated to deliver a positive impact.
Next seven days: vs. CHI (Nov. 1), @ STL (Nov. 3), @ DAL (Nov. 4)
Previous ranking: 14
Points percentage: 54.5%
Costume: the Undertaker
Connor Bedard has performed impressively to start the season, amassing 12 points across 10 games — he and Frank Nazar have proven to be a strong tandem.
Following a somewhat less impactful second year in 2024-25, Bedard has resurrected similar to how the Undertaker does after taking a boot to the face (or being thrown into a casket).
Next seven days: @ EDM (Nov. 1), @ SEA (Nov. 3), @ VAN (Nov. 5)
Previous ranking: 12
Points percentage: 50%
Costume: A tangible edition of “Grand Theft Auto VI”
Twitter rebranded to X before GTA 6 came to market. Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift became engaged prior to GTA 6. “67” dominated the global sphere before GTA 6 (7).
And, if the NHL does not shorten the regular season and playoffs to what it was during the early 1990s — a period that saw the Stanley Cup awarded on May 25 — GTA 6 will be released to the general public before the Maple Leafs secure another Cup.
Next seven days: @ PHI (Nov. 1), vs. PIT (Nov. 3), vs. UTA (Nov. 5)
Previous ranking: 16
Points percentage: 65%
Costume: Gandalf
Trevor Zegras remains exceptionally proficient during penalty shootouts, denying goalies the opportunity to declare, “You shall not pass!”
With a shooting percentage of 63.6% (14-for-22), Zegras holds the second-highest shootout goal percentage in league history (minimum 10 attempts). Suppose you answered Petteri Nummelin (8-for-10) as having the highest success rate, then you are qualified to trade your simple outfit for the fancier one.
Next seven days: vs. TOR (Nov. 1), vs. CGY (Nov. 2), @ MTL (Nov. 4), @ NSH (Nov. 6)
Previous ranking: 11
Points percentage: 50%
Costume: Syndrome
Ultimately, the main villain of “The Incredibles” was merely seeking acknowledgment. Why was he routinely dismissed? Why was he dismissed from contention, judged as deficient for the playoffs only because he may be without his crucial center? This should not imply he isn’t capable of making up for it. Avoid doubting Syndrome, and the Florida Panthers’ prospects for the playoffs.
Next seven days: vs. DAL (Nov. 1), @ ANA (Nov. 4), @ LA (Nov. 6)
Previous ranking: 25
Points percentage: 58.3%
Costume: Bottle of Ketchup
If the playoffs were held today — bearing in mind that we have quite a distance to cover — the Los Angeles Kings would be pitted against the Kraken. Connor McDavid and the Oilers are barely a point behind.
Could the Kings find themselves up against the Oilers for a fifth consecutive opening-round confrontation? So far, each contest finished 4-3, 4-2, 4-1 and 4-2, all in favor of Edmonton. Taking symmetry into consideration, another series ending in seven games would complete the cycle. Perhaps if each Kings player dressed as a bottle of ketchup — given McDavid’s well-known aversion to the condiment — it could increase their chances.
Next seven days: vs. NJ (Nov. 1), vs. WPG (Nov. 4), vs. FLA (Nov. 6)
Previous ranking: 23
Points percentage: 60%
Costume: Wolverine
The Blue Jackets’ ability to field a team that is mostly in top form is a welcome change when compared to the injury-plagued season of 2024-25.
Boone Jenner, Sean Monahan and Yegor Chinakhov missed a considerable amount of time due to an array of injuries. What if hockey players had bones made of adamantium?
Next seven days: vs. STL (Nov. 1), @ NYI (Nov. 2), @ CGY (Nov. 5)
Previous ranking: 19
Points percentage: 61.1%
Costume: Lightning McQueen
I need Roger McQueen to take a break from his studies to suit up with a red racecar design.
One of the highlights in hockey occurred when McQueen was drafted 10th overall by the Ducks, and immediately transported by helicopter to Disneyland, to pose with Lightning McQueen. To see him opt to wear No. 95 elevates it even more.
Next seven days: vs. DET (Oct. 31), vs. NJ (Nov. 2), vs. FLA (Nov. 4), @ DAL (Nov. 6)
Previous ranking: 30
Points percentage: 54.5%
Costume: Aluminum cans
On Saturday, Nikita Kucherov hit 1,000 career points with the Lightning, which includes the two Cups, and memorable celebratory occasions after claiming the championships.
Next seven days: @ UTA (Nov. 2), @ COL (Nov. 4), @ VGK (Nov. 6)
Previous ranking: 29
Points percentage: 54.2%
Costume: Senators Deadpool
This originates from what could have transpired had Ryan Reynolds’ group managed to purchase this team.
Next seven days: @ MTL (Nov. 1), @ BOS (Nov. 6)
Previous ranking: 22
Points percentage: 50%
Costume: Sadness
The followers of the Blueshirts are feeling as blue as the character of “Inside Out.”
The Rangers began with a 4-5-2 record — and without a home win — setting a dubious NHL record by being the first to be shut out in their initial three home games of a season.
Next seven days: @ SEA (Nov. 1), vs. CAR (Nov. 4)
Previous ranking: 27
Points percentage: 50%
Costume: Red Traffic Sign
Have the Sabres addressed their goalkeeping issues? In Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen’s absence at the season’s onset, Alex Lyon has shown immense skill, posting a .919 save percentage through eight games. Colten Ellis secured his first victory in his debut. Devon Levi is still practicing in Rochester.
This represents a significant highlight for a fan community that has been longing for excitement after being out of the postseason race for 14 years.
Next seven days: vs. WSH (Nov. 1), vs. UTA (Nov. 4), vs. STL (Nov. 6)
Previous ranking: 18
Points percentage: 50%
Costume: Earthquake
Remember Earthquake, the massive WWF fighter from the ’90s? His legal name was John Tenta, and he hailed from Vancouver. The Canucks could utilize Earthquake’s tremors at this moment. Perhaps that might jolt them to action.
Across 11 games, Evander Kane remains without a goal, Jake DeBrusk has two, and Elias Pettersson has three. One might have anticipated the Canucks showcasing elevated intensity on Frozen Frenzy night, marked by J.T. Miller’s return to Vancouver as a New York Ranger. Instead, they were held off at home.
Next seven days: @ MIN (Nov. 1), @ NSH (Nov. 3), vs. CHI (Nov. 5)
Previous ranking: 26
Points percentage: 41.7%
Costume: Sledgehammer and Automobile
What exactly is transpiring with the Predators’ star free agent acquisitions from the summer of 2024? Steven Stamkos has secured a goal and assist in 11 appearances. Jonathan Marchessault has three and two, respectively.
Adding insult to injury for Stamkos, should he progress at this tempo, it is likely that the 35-year-old will be excluded from Canada’s squad for the Olympics. For a range of factors — involving the NHL’s withdrawal in 2018 and 2022 — Stamkos hasn’t played for Team Canada in the Olympics (designated as a reserve for 2010). Something doesn’t feel right.
Should this pair seek inspiration from one of Smashville’s most cherished traditions?
Next seven days: vs. CGY (Nov. 1), vs. VAN (Nov. 3), @ MIN (Nov. 4), vs. PHI (Nov. 6)
Previous ranking: 24
Points percentage: 45%
Costume: Happy Gilmore
Did you recognize that Matthew Schaefer’s favorite movie of all time is “Happy Gilmore” (specifically the original)?
If you do not, the price is wrong. It is a fitting option for an ice hockey player who turned 18 but comes across as a show veteran. He is shattering records and earning praise from everyone.
Next seven days: @ WSH (Oct. 31), vs. CBJ (Nov. 2), vs. BOS (Nov. 4)
Previous ranking: 13
Points percentage: 36.4%
Costume: Their usual uniforms
They are visually appealing. The colors are wonderful and really pop on the ice. It is a great fit.
Next seven days: @ CBJ (Nov. 1), vs. EDM (Nov. 3), @ WSH (Nov. 5), @ BUF (Nov. 6)
Previous ranking: 28
Points percentage: 46.2%
Costume: Roll of paper towels
The spectacle of Brad Marchand’s first game with the Florida Panthers was perfect. It was emotionally intense, and the tribute video resonated with Marchand, who was seen with wet eyes on the bench.
Soon after, the crowd began jeering Marchand, like one would expect of Boston sports fanatics to a rival.
Next seven days: vs. CAR (Nov. 1), @ NYI (Nov. 4), vs. OTT (Nov. 6)
Previous ranking: 21
Points percentage: 37.5%
Costume: Scrooge McDuck
Beginning next year, Kirill Kaprizov will be receiving the biggest amount of cash in history, by agreeing to an eight-year, $17 million per-year extension this fall.
Unlike the cartoon icon, Kaprizov has given great performances ever since, recording 15 points through 11 games.
Next seven days: vs. VAN (Nov. 1), vs. NSH (Nov. 4), @ CAR (Nov. 6)
Previous ranking: 32
Points percentage: 36.4%
Costume: Step Brothers
The Macklin Celebrini-Will Smith connection prevails. Celebrini has generated 16 points over 10 games, in contrast to Smith’s nine within the same timeline. They have created fun content also, dressing as the comedic duo from “Dumb and Dumber” for the holiday. A famous duo will represent the costume of the team.
Next seven days: vs. COL (Nov. 1), vs. DET (Nov. 2), @ SEA (Nov. 5)
Previous ranking: 31
Points percentage: 25%
Costume: Clones
The Flames find themselves struggling as the most unproductive team and allowing the eighth-most goals per game in the league.
The puck is constantly shot with an average of 27.9 shots per game, which ranks 17th. The clones are like in the movie, they can’t shoot to save themselves.
Next seven days: @ NSH (Nov. 1), @ PHI (Nov. 2), vs. CBJ (Nov. 5)
