Early in the 2026-27 NHL season, trader sentiment for the number of teams finishing with 80-plus points reflects typical league parity, where most clubs pace near the 82-point average over 82 games. Carolina, Vegas, Edmonton, and the Rangers have opened with strong records and point totals, while the Flyers, Flames, and Blackhawks lag badly. Projections from models like OddPuck and The Athletic place roughly a dozen clubs on 95-plus point tracks, with several others clustered around 85-93. Key variables include the Rangers’ season-long loss of Igor Shesterkin, emerging injuries such as Rasmus Dahlin’s upper-body issue, and how early momentum translates through a demanding schedule. Historical results show 14-18 teams usually clear the mark in recent seasons.