NHL Standings 2026: A Deep Dive into Regulation Records and Playoff Potential

NHL Standings 2026: Beyond the Overtime Noise

When evaluating NHL teams, focusing solely on the overall standings can be misleading. While the current standings paint a picture, a deeper look at regulation records reveals a potentially more accurate assessment of a team’s true strength and playoff potential. This is especially relevant as we look ahead to the NHL standings 2026 and try to predict contenders.

The Problem with Overtime and Shootouts

Regular-season overtime and the shootout, while entertaining, introduce an element of chance that doesn’t fully reflect a team’s consistent performance. The three-on-three format can lead to exciting rushes, but it’s also susceptible to unpredictable bounces and individual brilliance. The shootout, in particular, feels like a different sport altogether. These “gimmicks,” as some might call them, add points to the standings but don’t necessarily indicate a team’s ability to consistently win in the more crucial five-on-five play that dominates the playoffs.

Focusing on Regulation: A More Accurate Gauge?

To get a clearer picture of which teams are genuinely strong, let’s examine the standings based solely on regulation wins. Hockey-Reference.com provides a valuable column that calculates each team’s points percentage in regulation, effectively treating overtime and shootout results as ties. This approach prioritizes consistent performance within the core 60 minutes of a game.

What the Regulation Standings Reveal

Interestingly, shifting the focus to regulation records can significantly alter the perceived hierarchy of teams. While the Avalanche, Lightning, and Stars maintain their positions at the top, some notable shifts occur further down the rankings:

The Pittsburgh Penguins, currently tied for seventh overall, jump to fourth in the regulation standings with a .578 percentage.
The Florida Panthers climb from sixth in the Atlantic Division to a tie for fourth.
The Washington Capitals move from fifth in the Metro Division to third.
The Seattle Kraken rise from sixth in the Pacific Division to third.

Conversely, teams heavily reliant on overtime and shootout wins experience a drop in the regulation standings. The San Jose Sharks, for example, fall from an impressive .550 to .440. Other teams experiencing significant declines include the Ducks, Kings, Maple Leafs, Flyers, and Senators.

The Blues: A Model of Consistency?

One team stands out for its minimal change in the regulation standings: the St. Louis Blues. With a drop of only .010 in their points percentage, the Blues demonstrate a consistent level of performance regardless of how extra points are awarded. This suggests a team built for the grind of playoff hockey.

Looking Ahead to 2026

As we anticipate the NHL standings 2026, understanding a team’s performance in regulation will be crucial. While overtime and shootouts have their place, they shouldn’t overshadow a team’s ability to consistently win within the framework of a standard 60-minute game. Teams that excel in regulation are likely to be the ones making deep playoff runs.

A Blast from the Past: Darryl Sittler’s Historic Night

Speaking of historic performances, the Toronto Maple Leafs recently celebrated the 50th anniversary of Darryl Sittler’s incredible 10-point game against the Boston Bruins. This feat, which included six goals and four assists, remains unmatched in NHL history. It’s a reminder that even in a league constantly evolving, some records are truly legendary. You can relive the magic here.

Stay Informed

For more in-depth NHL analysis, check out these resources:

Keep an eye on the NHL standings 2026 as the season progresses, and remember to look beyond the surface to identify the teams truly built for success.