With the NHL offseason entering its slowest stretch, it’s time to shift focus toward the upcoming 2026 season and the players who might finally break through.

After months of limited news, the anticipation builds around a select group of athletes poised to make a major impact.

Let’s dive into ten NHL players who have shown promise and are on the verge of breakout seasons.

Starting with a seemingly obvious candidate, Leo Carlson of the Anaheim Ducks stands out.

Drafted second overall in 2023, Carlson has already demonstrated impressive skill as a young center on a struggling team.

In the last season, he tied for fourth in goals and third in points on the Ducks, all before turning 21.

His combination of size, skill, and hockey IQ suggests he’s on a trajectory to become a dominant force at center.

With a coaching change in Anaheim, Carlson and his fellow young forwards may benefit greatly, potentially pushing him into star territory this season.

Next up is Marco Casper of the Detroit Red Wings, a player who defied expectations by making a quick jump from the AHL to a key role in Detroit’s lineup.

Despite not making the opening night roster initially, Casper became one of the team’s best forwards in the latter half of the season.

His versatility—playing both wing and center—combined with his offensive upside makes him a vital piece for the Red Wings as they aim to end their playoff drought.

Casper’s sophomore season could be a breakout year that cements his role among Detroit’s top six forwards.

On the defensive side, Brandt Clark of the Los Angeles Kings had a solid rookie campaign, putting up 33 points in 78 games.

While his defensive game still needs refinement, Clark’s offensive talent is undeniable.

The Kings’ blue line underwent significant changes this offseason, opening the door for Clark to earn more ice time and responsibility.

If he can step up, Clark could become one of the league’s top offensive defensemen, making 2026 a defining season for him.

Philip Heedle of the Vancouver Canucks is a riskier pick, given his age and injury history.

However, his move from New York to Vancouver placed him in a more prominent role, especially after the departure of key players.

Heedle’s increased ice time and opportunity to play as a second-line center could allow him to surpass previous career highs.

Staying healthy is the biggest question, but if he does, Heedle could surprise many with a strong season.

Matthew Potra of the Boston Bruins started his NHL career with promise before injuries slowed his progress.

Last season, he spent significant time in the AHL but showed scoring prowess there.

With the Bruins potentially thin at center and rumors swirling about trades, Potra may get a chance to prove himself in the top six.

If he can replicate his rookie-season form, he might become a valuable secondary scorer for Boston.

Kaden Corzac of the Vegas Golden Knights appeared in just 40 games last season but made a strong impression.

His recent contract extension signals the team’s belief in his potential.

With departures on Vegas’ blue line, Corzac could see a bigger role and more minutes in 2026.

If he maintains his performance at a higher workload, he could emerge as a key defenseman for the Golden Knights.

Logan Stanovven of the Carolina Hurricanes showed promise in his rookie season split between Dallas and Carolina.

Known for his tenacity and skill despite being undersized, Stanovven earned a long-term contract this offseason.

Whether he plays in the top six or middle six, his development trajectory suggests a significant step forward in the coming season.

Matias Machelli, recently acquired by the Toronto Maple Leafs, is a fascinating case.

After a disappointing season, his value dipped, making him a steal for Toronto.

At 24, Machelli has proven he can score and create at a high level.

Playing alongside elite goal scorers like Matthews and Tavares could elevate his production, potentially leading to a breakout season that fills some of the void left by departing stars.

Zack Benson of the Buffalo Sabres didn’t quite have the sophomore leap fans hoped for but remains a highly effective two-way player.

With the team needing offensive contributions from new sources, Benson is poised to take on a larger role.

His strong defensive game combined with growing offensive skills make him a candidate for a breakout year, especially if paired with skilled linemates.

Finally, Jordan Spence, a defenseman traded to the Ottawa Senators, could be one of the offseason’s most underrated acquisitions.

The Kings’ decision to trade him, citing playing time concerns, might backfire.

Spence was a reliable third-pairing defender in Los Angeles and now has a chance to solidify a top-four role in Ottawa.

If he adapts well, he could become a cornerstone on the Senators’ right side.

The 2026 NHL season is shaping up to be an exciting chapter for these players.

Whether it’s young stars stepping into leadership roles or savvy veterans seizing new opportunities, the potential for breakout performances is high.

Fans should keep a close eye on these athletes as their growth could reshape team dynamics and influence playoff races across the league.