The NHL's expanded 84-game schedule for 2026-27 increases total points available across the league, potentially supporting more teams clearing the 90-point mark than in recent 82-game seasons. Defending champion Carolina, along with projected leaders like Colorado, Dallas, and Tampa Bay, anchor the upper tier with strong cores and depth, while teams such as Washington, Montreal, and the Islanders benefit from offseason additions and emerging talent. Competitive divisions and variable goaltending stability across the 32 clubs create a broad middle group where recent form, injury reports, and schedule strength will determine final tallies, with historical patterns showing 16-20 teams typically finishing at or above this benchmark.