Halloween and Hockey: A Spooky Look at NHL Players with Scary Starts
As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, Halloween approaches, bringing with it the perfect excuse to settle in for a night of frights. While many will opt for classic horror films, hockey fans might find themselves pondering a different kind of scare: the disappointing starts of their favorite NHL players. This Halloween, let’s take a look at some players whose performances have been more trick than treat, creating a roster of those who have stumbled out of the gate this season.
Goalies: The Last Line of Defense
Alexandar Georgiev, Colorado Avalanche
Georgiev’s start to the season has been nothing short of terrifying for Avalanche fans. After a shaky performance where he allowed three goals in the first period against one of the league’s weaker teams, his goals-against average (GAA) sits at a ghastly 4.62. With a hefty cap hit of $3.4 million, the Avalanche are hoping he can regain his form before they dig themselves into an even deeper hole.
Jacob Markstrom, New Jersey Devils
Markstrom’s transition to the Devils has been underwhelming. While he hasn’t been outright terrible, his performance has not met the expectations set for a team poised to contend. With a record of 6-4-2, the Devils have managed to outscore their goaltending woes, but the question remains: can Markstrom find his rhythm before the offense cools off?
Ivan Fedotov, Philadelphia Flyers
Rookie goalies often come with high hopes, but Fedotov’s early performances have left much to be desired. Overwhelmed in his limited appearances, he has struggled to make a significant impact. Flyers fans are left hoping that with time, he can develop into a reliable option.
Defensemen: The Backbone of the Team
Rasmus Dahlin, Buffalo Sabres
Dahlin, a former No. 1 overall pick, is expected to shine in his new contract year. However, with only three primary points to his name and a power play that has struggled, his performance has been disappointing. Fortunately, he seems to be finding his footing lately, leaving fans hopeful for a turnaround.
Noah Hanifin, Vegas Golden Knights
Hanifin’s first full season in Vegas has been lackluster. With no primary points since the season opener and an expected goals percentage below 40%, he has not lived up to the expectations that come with his recent eight-year extension.
Kris Letang, Pittsburgh Penguins
Letang’s slow start has raised eyebrows, especially given his decorated career. As a 37-year-old, he appears to be hitting a wall, and his performance has not matched the high standards he set in the past. The Penguins have several players underperforming, but Letang’s struggles stand out.
Forwards: The Scoring Threats
Elias Pettersson, Vancouver Canucks
Pettersson’s season has been marred by inconsistency, with only one goal to show for his efforts. After a disappointing end to last year, he has yet to find his stride, leaving fans anxious about his long-term potential.
Steven Stamkos, Nashville Predators
Stamkos’ return to Tampa was a highlight, but it only served to underscore his struggles this season. With just one goal and two assists, the Predators are likely regretting their commitment to him as he approaches the twilight of his career.
Alexander Ovechkin, Washington Capitals
Despite the Capitals’ surprising start, Ovechkin’s goal-scoring has not met expectations. With only four goals to his name, including one empty-netter, fans are left wanting more as he chases Wayne Gretzky’s record.
Trevor Zegras, Anaheim Ducks
Zegras has faced challenges this season, particularly with trade rumors swirling around him. His performance has suffered, and he’s currently on pace for a disappointing 20-point season, raising concerns about his development.
Chandler Stephenson, Seattle Kraken
After a breakout season last year, Stephenson has struggled to find the back of the net, with only one goal so far. As he enters the first year of a significant contract, the pressure is on for him to deliver.
Mathew Barzal, New York Islanders
Barzal’s offensive output has been underwhelming, with only two goals in the first month of the season. While his line has shown promise, the lack of scoring is a concern for a player of his caliber.
Will Smith, San Jose Sharks
As a rookie, Smith’s early struggles are understandable, but with no points in his first month and time spent as a healthy scratch, the expectations set for him have not yet materialized.
Quinton Byfield, Los Angeles Kings
Byfield was expected to take a step forward this season, but he has yet to score a goal, with only two primary points to his name. Fans are left hoping for a turnaround as he continues to develop.
Adam Fantilli, Columbus Blue Jackets
The third overall pick in the 2023 draft, Fantilli has shown flashes of potential but has not yet made a significant impact. With two goals and five points, fans are eager to see him break out as the season progresses.
Taylor Hall, Chicago Blackhawks
Hall’s presence in Chicago has been overshadowed by the team’s rebuilding efforts. With only three points in October, he needs to step up if he hopes to become a valuable asset for a contending team.
Viktor Arvidsson, Edmonton Oilers
Arvidsson was expected to thrive in the Oilers’ top six, but his production has been disappointing. Despite being in a prime scoring position, he has struggled to find the net, leaving fans frustrated.
As Halloween approaches, the NHL landscape is filled with players whose starts have been more frightful than delightful. While these slow beginnings don’t necessarily spell doom for the season, they certainly add an element of suspense to the unfolding drama of the NHL. Fans will be watching closely to see which players can turn their fortunes around and which may continue to haunt their teams throughout the season.