3 NHL Teams That Overachieved in the 2024-25 Season

Every NHL season carries surprises, with some teams exceeding expectations, beating the odds to defy preseason predictions. The 2024-25 season was no different, highlighting teams that managed to perform well above their projected levels. 

Whether due to brilliant coaching, standout players, or a collective team effort, three NHL teams turned heads this season, becoming the top overachievers. 

This analysis will highlight these squads, analyze what fueled their stellar performances, and provide insights into their future prospects in both league play and Stanley Cup aspirations. 

1. Ottawa Senators – A Playoffs Return After an 8-Year Hiatus 

The Ottawa Senators entered the season with modest expectations at best. Few had them on their radar as a legitimate playoff contender. However, the Senators stunned both fans and analysts alike, earning their first postseason berth in eight years. 

What Powered Their Success? 

Several factors contributed to their remarkable rise:

• Linus Ullmark’s Stellar Goaltending: Ullmark posted a solid 2.68 GAA and a .911 save percentage, giving the Senators the goaltending backbone they had long lacked,
• Brady Tkachuk’s Leadership: Tkachuk’s physical, relentless style energized his team, while his offensive production set the tone,
• Depth Scoring and Key Acquisitions: Beyond the stars, crucial contributions came from players lower in the lineup and savvy additions at the trade deadline.

The Ottawa Senators thrived in clutch moments, keeping pace with some of the NHL’s elite teams. Their rise wasn’t just a fluke; it was a testament to the synergy between front-office decisions, effective coaching, and on-ice execution. 

What’s Next for Ottawa? 

While this season signifies progress, Ottawa’s core must sustain this level of performance to ensure long-term competitiveness. Their success has already captured attention in NHL betting predictions, and many experts see them as a wildcard worth watching in the 2025 playoffs. Their Stanley Cup odds are not the highest, but their never-say-die underdog mentality and youthful energy could be enough to make a deep run. 

2. Montreal Canadiens – Peaking at the Perfect Time 

The Montreal Canadiens embarked on the 2024-25 season facing scrutiny. After a rough patch early on, it seemed likely they’d join the NHL’s bottom-tier teams. But instead, they surged back into contention, riding an impeccable five-game winning streak to secure the final Eastern Conference playoff spot. 

Key Factors Behind Their Surge 

• Lane Hutson for Calder Trophy: Hutson emerged as a breakout star, standing out as one of the NHL’s best rookies with a potential Calder Trophy in his grasp. His poise and playmaking were instrumental in Montreal’s turnaround,
• Strengthened Core: The Canadiens’ young team began clicking as the season progressed. Core players gained confidence, translating to improved chemistry and results,
• Key Wins at the Right Time: Montreal’s ability to win crucial games, notably against Eastern Conference powerhouses like the Florida Panthers, showcased their potential.

Why Did They Overachieve? 

Montreal’s ability to stay mentally strong after early setbacks played a major role in their overachievement. It’s rare for young teams to recover confidence midseason, but the Canadiens managed it seamlessly. 

What Lies Ahead? 

For fans keeping an eye on NHL betting insights, this season’s late run has positioned Montreal as a sleeper pick for deeper playoff success. However, their challenge will be maintaining this momentum in a league that rarely forgives young rosters for inconsistency. 

3. Utah Hockey Club – From Basement to Respectability 

When the puck dropped at the start of the season, few expected much from the Utah Hockey Club. Widely written off as a rebuilding franchise, no one could’ve predicted their steady climb. By season’s end, they improved remarkably, finishing above some former playoff hopefuls in the standings. 

Utah’s Overachievement Formula 

• Team Identity: Utah played gritty and fearless hockey, fueled by a blue-collar work ethic that made the difference when teams underestimated them,
• Goaltending Gems: The tandem of their netminders consistently delivered clutch saves, keeping Utah competitive in tight games,
• Young Talent Flourishing: Development of Utah’s rookies and young players showed promise for a solid foundation moving forward.

While their standing might not have turned them into playoff contenders, their leap to respectability was a major win in itself. 

Why Were They Overlooked? 

The typical prediction models and NHL betting news didn’t favor Utah. But under the radar, this team harnessed a culture shift and player-driven motivation that were tough to quantify in preseason odds. 

Will Utah Build on This? 

Utah now faces the challenge of turning respectable performances into meaningful playoff runs. With smart offseason moves and continuing development of their younger talent, they could shake up division standings in the near future. 

A Season to Remember 

The 2024-25 NHL season highlighted the overachievement that often results from a mix of resilience, leadership, and timely performances. Teams like Ottawa proved they could challenge playoff expectations, while Montreal displayed maturity under pressure, and Utah rewrote their narrative.

For fans tracking NHL betting insights, these teams serve as reminders to keep an open mind when making future predictions. Hockey is unpredictable, and overachievers like these can often surprise bettors and analysts alike by beating the odds. 

The question for next season is simple—can these teams sustain their momentum, or will their performances be a one-time wonder? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain. The magic of underdogs overachieving is part of what makes the NHL so captivating.