NHL 2025-26 Season Preview: Top NCAA Rookies in Metropolitan Division and Central Division Outlook

Former NCAA players Porter Martone (Philadelphia Flyers), Cole Hutson (Washington Capitals) and Bradly Nadeau (Carolina Hurricanes) are projected to be the leading rookie impacts in the Metropolitan Division for the 2025‑26 season, with Martone already posting four goals and ten points in nine games and being tipped as a Calder Trophy contender.

In the Central Division, analysts note that the league’s toughest playoff path remains there. The Winnipeg Jets are expected to finish seventh with 82 points, bolstered by the addition of goaltender Stuart Skinner and a projected $4.48 billion cap space, while veteran Connor Hellebuyck is likely to stay as starter. The Colorado Avalanche, coming off a third‑round exit, are projected to dominate with a 121‑point season, a $404 million cap, and new forwards Fabian Lysell, Jaden Schwartz and Fedor Svechkov added to the roster.