The 2026-27 NHL season opens with a small group of elite clubs—led by the defending champion Carolina Hurricanes, Colorado Avalanche, and Dallas Stars—positioned to chase 110-plus points again after those three combined for 346 points in 2025-26. An 84-game schedule, expanded from the traditional 82, increases the durability demands on top rosters while amplifying the impact of injuries, goaltending consistency, and special-teams execution. Recent previews project the Avalanche near or above the mark, with Dallas, Vegas, and Tampa Bay close behind, but parity and travel factors often limit the total to three or four teams in any given year. Early results and official injury reports will quickly shape trader views on whether additional contenders like the Oilers or emerging clubs can join that tier.