High-Stakes Hockey: This Season’s Biggest NHL Gambles
A handful of NHL teams are taking a pretty big risk heading into 2025-26.
The 2025-26 NHL season is right around the corner, and most of the rosters are set as camps aren’t far away. Some teams made big splashes over the summer, while others did little in the way of additions. There were roster shakeups, but a handful of teams chose not to replace the players who left. Several teams have taken massive gambles that could play out in various ways.
Here’s a look at the biggest bets of the season — and what’s at stake.
Toronto Maple Leafs: Betting on Matthews Without Marner
The Maple Leafs’ gamble is simple: Auston Matthews must carry the team without longtime linemate Mitch Marner, who was traded to the Vegas Golden Knights this offseason. The departure leaves Toronto with a 100-point hole in its lineup and an urgent need for Matthews to rediscover his dominance, especially in the playoffs.
Once regarded as Connor McDavid’s closest rival, Matthews has slipped in league rankings, falling behind Nathan MacKinnon, Leon Draisaitl, Aleksander Barkov, and even Jack Eichel. His regular-season production remains high, but can he up his offense without his sidekick? The Leafs added what some are calling spare parts in the hopes that someone will find chemistry. Unfortunately, four goals in his last 18 playoff games have cast doubt on Matthews’ ability to deliver when it matters most.
If Matthews can turn criticism into fuel, the Leafs could remain a contender. If not, failing to find another top star to replace Marner will be a problem.
Edmonton Oilers: Standing Pat in Goal
The Oilers are in “win-now” mode, yet they’ve opted to stick with the tandem of Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard — a decision that could backfire. While both netminders helped Edmonton reach consecutive Stanley Cup Finals, inconsistency has plagued them in high-pressure moments.
