Are you ready for another exciting year of Canadian NHL hockey? Every NHL season brings its own set of intriguing rivalries and noteworthy teams vying to be crowned champions. There’s no denying that fans in Canada have a rich history with the sport, and this season will only further expand upon said legacy.
The quality of hockey being played north of the border is as good as it ever has been. So which Canadian franchises are best positioned to make noise in 2023? Keep reading to find out which teams I believe could represent their country on a national level this coming year!
Montreal Canadiens
The Montreal Canadiens are a Canadian institution when it comes to hockey. Since their inception in 1909, the Canadiens have had one of the most illustrious histories of any NHL franchise. With 24 NHL Stanley Cup titles and an impressive haul of individual accolades accumulated throughout the years, there is no denying that the Canadiens are amongst the elite in Canadian hockey.
This season, thanks to their strong management and impressive depth at both ends of the ice, the Canadiens look poised to make some noise in the standings.
Led by star forwards like Brendan Gallagher and backed up by defensively-minded players such as Joel Edmundson, they have put together a roster capable of making a deep postseason run.
Moreover, their goaltending situation is also looking good, with Carey Price returning to form last season and backup Jake Allen providing quality relief when needed. If they can sustain this level of play through 2023, then there's no reason why they shouldn't be considered one of Canada's top contenders for the Stanley Cup this year!
Toronto Maple Leafs
Ah, the Toronto Maple Leafs. This storied franchise has been a symbol of Canadian hockey for decades, and with 13 Stanley Cups to their name, they have earned that distinction.
This season looks promising for the Maple Leafs in terms of making a run at the cup. Led by Auston Matthews and John Tavares up front, as well as Justin Holl on defense, the Maple Leafs have some of the best players in all of the hockey at their disposal.
On the net, Toronto relies on Ilya Samsonov as their starter and Joseph Woll to provide quality backup options when needed. With this combination of talent on display this season - there's no doubt that the Maple Leafs will be one of Canada's top contenders when it comes to winning hockey’s ultimate prize!
Vancouver Canucks
The Vancouver Canucks have been dominant in recent years, and this season looks like it could be no different.
Led by a strong core of forwards such as Elias Pettersson and JT Miller, the Canucks should be able to score goals in bunches this season. On defense, the Canucks are bolstered by Quinn Hughes and Tyler Myers, two players who excel in both offensive and defensive roles.
As for their goaltending situation, they have Thatcher Demko as the starter, with Collin Delia providing backup options when needed. If the Canucks can maintain this level of play throughout 2023 - then there's no doubt that they should be considered one of Canada’s top contenders for the Stanley Cup this season!
Winnipeg Jets
The Winnipeg Jets have been on the cusp of greatness for quite some time, but this season looks like it could finally be their year.
Led by Connor Hellebuyck in goal and bolstered by a solid defensive core led by Josh Morrissey, the Jets should have one of the best defenses in all of hockey this season.
Upfront, they boast names such as Mark Scheifele and Blake Wheeler, who can both provide an offensive spark when needed. With these components in place - there's no reason why the Winnipeg Jets shouldn't be considered among Canada’s top contenders for the Stanley Cup this year!
Ottawa Senators
The Ottawa Senators might have little chance of winning the cup this season, but that doesn't mean they can't make some noise throughout the year.
Led by star forward Brady Tkachuks and backed up by a solid defensive group featuring Thomas Chabot, the Senators should be able to compete at both ends of the ice. In goal, Cameron Talbot is the starter, and Mads Søgaard provides quality relief when needed. If these players can provide adequate play throughout 2023, then there's no reason why the Senators shouldn't be considered one of Canada’s top contenders for making a deep run in this year's Stanley Cup Playoffs!
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