Matthews and Michkov lead early NHL scoring surge

Auston Matthews has returned to elite scoring form after two seasons of diminished output, recording nine goals in his first 14 games of the 2026-27 NHL campaign. His current pace projects to 54 goals and 120 points for the season. Metrics from NHL Edge indicate a measurable improvement in his skating speed, with his 18-20 mph bursts now ranking in the 93rd percentile, up from the 72nd in previous years.

The Toronto captain is also more aggressive on the forecheck, generating turnovers and creating chances for his line. This resurgence places him among the top performers in the league as every team has now completed at least 10 games.

In Philadelphia, Matvei Michkov leads the Flyers in points after arriving at training camp in his best physical condition. The 2023 seventh overall pick has tallied eight goals in 14 games. He has already matched his power-play goal total from last season, and analysts suggest a 30-goal season is plausible even if his shooting percentage declines.

Vancouver’s Elias Pettersson has also rebounded under new coaching. Despite trade rumors in recent seasons, he is averaging a point per game and drawing penalties at an elite rate. He has matched last season's power-play goal total and ranks in the top five among NHL forwards for blocked shots.

Breakout performances are also evident among younger players. New York Rangers’ Artemi Panarin’s departure has allowed Kaapo Kakko, known in the source as Lafreniere, to claim top-line minutes. He averages about 19 minutes of ice time and is creating more chances through assertive play. Meanwhile, Toronto’s Cowan has moved to the top line with Matthews and Jack Roslovic, posting six goals and 13 points in 14 games, which is nearly half his rookie season totals.

Edmonton’s Podkolzin is benefiting from a line with Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. He plays nearly 20 minutes per night and is on pace for more than 50 goals and 90 points. Jake McTavish has found success in St. Louis after leaving Anaheim, pacing for career highs of 22 goals and 52 points while ranking in the 97th percentile for high-danger shots.

Ottawa goalie Linus Ullmark was second in the league behind Jake Oettinger at 8.4 goals above expected before an injury sidelined him. He is expected to return within a week, though the Senators face a steep drop-off in performance with Samuel Ersson as his replacement.