Welcome to the NHL Star Power Index: A weekly gauge of the players who are capturing significant attention around the league. These players are listed in no particular order and will be revisited every week throughout the regular season.
Alex DeBrincat, who was traded from the Ottawa Senators to the Detroit Red Wings during the offseason, has had an impressive start to the 2023-24 season. He leads the NHL in goals with 9 and has a total of 13 points, trailing only teammate Dylan Larkin and Jack Hughes of the New Jersey Devils. DeBrincat’s chemistry with Larkin has been a key factor in his success.
DeBrincat has scored at least one goal in three of his last four games, including a three-goal performance in a 6-2 win over the Calgary Flames. He has also scored a goal in five of the Red Wings’ seven games, contributing to the team’s early success.
In a game against the Flames, DeBrincat and Larkin displayed their strong connection when Larkin set up DeBrincat for a goal. DeBrincat’s performance and offensive production have been instrumental in the Red Wings’ strong start to the season.
Mikko Rantanen has been a major contributor to the Colorado Avalanche’s strong start to the season. He has recorded 12 points in the team’s first six games, with five goals and seven assists. Rantanen has been an offensive force, recently registering a goal and three assists in a game against the New York Islanders.
Rantanen has showcased his playmaking abilities, leading the Avalanche in points, goals, and assists. He has recorded points in five of the team’s six games so far, making him a key player for Colorado.
The Avalanche are off to an undefeated start this season and Rantanen’s performance will be crucial to their success.
Jake Sanderson has made significant contributions on both ends of the ice for the Ottawa Senators. He has tallied points in five consecutive games, including a goal and an assist in a game against the Detroit Red Wings.
Sanderson has shown promise in his rookie season and is continuing to impress in his sophomore campaign. His strong play will be important for the Senators’ success this season.
Jake Oettinger, the Dallas Stars’ primary goaltender, has had an outstanding start to the season. In four starts, he has a 3-0-1 record, a 1.44 goals-against-average, and a .952 save percentage.
Oettinger has been instrumental in the Stars’ recent victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins, making impressive saves throughout the game. His strong performances have contributed to the Stars’ early success this season.
If Oettinger continues this level of play, he could be a top contender for the Vezina Trophy.
