NHL Most Improved Players 2025-26: Top 10 List

The NHL season is always marked by unexpected ascensions, players who defy preseason expectations and emerge as key contributors. While many rising stars are anticipated, it’s the surprise breakouts that truly captivate fans. This analysis focuses on players who have demonstrably improved their performance, excluding rookies and those simply continuing established trajectories or rebounding from prior setbacks. The following players represent the most significant leaps in performance during the 2025-26 season.

Morgan Geekie: From Utility Player to Premier Scorer

Boston Bruins right wing Morgan Geekie’s transformation has been remarkable. Despite a recent scoring slump of one goal in 13 games, his overall progression from a bottom-six role to a top goal scorer is undeniable. Prior to joining Boston in the summer of 2023, Geekie had never recorded a double-digit goal season. Since then, he’s tallied 17, 33, and is currently on pace for 43 goals, placing him among the league’s top five.

Geekie’s success isn’t solely about opportunity; he demonstrated underlying offensive potential even before arriving in Boston, ranking 31st in points per 60 minutes among NHL players with at least 500 minutes played during his final season with the Kraken. A significant increase in ice time and power-play minutes with the Bruins has unlocked his offensive capabilities. The impact of David Pastrnak, who has assisted on 56 percent of Geekie’s goals since last season, cannot be overstated. Pastrnak’s evolution into a playmaker has created space for Geekie, and his powerful shot—ranking in the 99th percentile for velocity—has become a focal point of the Bruins’ power play.

Josh Doan: A Two-Way Force for the Sabres

Acquired in a trade with the JJ Peterka, Buffalo Sabres winger Josh Doan has quickly become a vital player. He’s currently producing at a 58-point pace with 35 points in 49 games, but his impact extends far beyond offense. Doan is described as a smart, hard-working, and physically imposing player with exceptional two-way ability, helping the Sabres control 57 percent of expected goals during his five-on-five shifts.

Doan’s game is evolving, showcasing improved offensive skills and creativity. He’s winning puck battles, disrupting opponents defensively, and extending offensive possessions. His recent performances suggest a potential to become a top-line force if he continues to refine his already strong fundamentals.

J.J. Moser: Anchoring the Lightning’s Defense

Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman J.J. Moser has emerged as the team’s best blueliner, particularly during a period of significant injury challenges to the Lightning’s defensive corps. With Victor Hedman, Ryan McDonagh, and Erik Cernak sidelined, Moser has stepped up, averaging 22 minutes per game and excelling in a top-pairing role. He’s winning 61.2 percent of scoring chances during five-on-five play, fourth-best among NHL defensemen, and has outscored opponents 45-15.

Moser’s breakout is partially attributed to a return to playing his natural left side, after previously being deployed on his off-side to accommodate Hedman. He’s a defensively sound player with a high two-way IQ, consistently making smart decisions with the puck.

Leo Carlsson: Unleashed in Anaheim

Anaheim Ducks center Leo Carlsson’s development isn’t a surprise, but his leap in production is noteworthy. The No. 2 pick from 2023 has flourished under new head coach Joel Quenneville’s offensive system, leading the team with 44 points in 44 games after posting 45 points in 76 games last season. He’s added a more aggressive, rushing element to his game, complementing his existing playmaking and stickhandling skills.

Despite a recent injury and a slight slowdown in production, Carlsson’s skillset suggests he’s poised to become a franchise cornerstone.

Darren Raddysh: An Unlikely Offensive Star

Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Darren Raddysh’s ascent is a remarkable underdog story. Going from a healthy scratch to an elite-level producer, Raddysh has scored 39 points in 33 games since November 9th, the second-most among all NHL defensemen in that span. His booming shot—ranking in the 99th percentile for velocity—is a key component of his success, and the Lightning’s power play has capitalized on it. The presence of Nikita Kucherov on the ice significantly boosts Raddysh’s production, with 34 of his points coming while playing alongside Kucherov.

Sam Malinski: A Rising Star on Colorado’s Blue Line

Colorado Avalanche defenseman Sam Malinski has become an indispensable part of the team’s lineup. Despite being initially signed as an undrafted free agent, he’s a dynamic puck mover who excels in zone exits and transitions. He’s on pace for 42 points, despite not receiving power-play time, and his two-way metrics are elite. Even when playing away from Nathan MacKinnon, Malinski continues to drive play effectively.

Cutter Gauthier: A Sniper on the Rise

Anaheim Ducks winger Cutter Gauthier is on pace for 38 goals, nearly doubling his rookie total. His unique and explosive shot, ranking in the 97th percentile for velocity, is his defining characteristic. He generates a high volume of shots, making him a consistent scoring threat.

Juraj Slafkovský: Blending Size and Skill in Montreal

Montreal Canadiens winger Juraj Slafkovský is demonstrating significant growth, on pace for 31 goals and producing at a high rate alongside Ivan Demidov. His ability to combine size and athleticism with enhanced playmaking skills is making him a dynamic offensive force. The duo of Slafkovský and Demidov have been particularly dangerous, generating a remarkable 4.52 goals per 60 minutes.

Luke Evangelista: A Complete Player for the Predators

Nashville Predators winger Luke Evangelista has solidified his role as a top-six player. He’s on pace for 60 points and has become a key component of the team’s top line. Evangelista’s improved two-way play and commitment to a more complete game have been instrumental in his success.

Spencer Knight: Stabilizing the Blackhawks’ Net

Chicago Blackhawks goaltender Spencer Knight has been a key factor in the team’s improved competitiveness. He’s posted a solid record and saved 29.9 goals above expected, ranking third among NHL goalies. His strong technical skills and mental fortitude have been crucial to the Blackhawks’ success.

Frequently Asked Questions

What criteria were used to create this list?

The list focuses on players who have shown significant improvement in the 2025-26 season, excluding rookies, established stars who have simply leveled up, and players experiencing bounce-back years.

Are these players guaranteed to maintain this level of performance?

The analysis acknowledges that some players, like Morgan Geekie, may experience regression, and that sustained success depends on factors like continued opportunity and consistency.

What role does coaching play in these breakouts?

Coaching changes, such as the one experienced by Leo Carlsson in Anaheim, can significantly impact a player’s development and opportunity, as demonstrated by the shift to a more offensive system.

What will be the long-term impact of these breakouts on their respective teams and the league as a whole?