The well-known school of thought is that if you’re in the playoff bracket by the time of Thanksgiving, then you will probably be there when the season is done. That may not hold true this season.

In the Eastern Conference, a total of eight points separated the top team from the 15th team going into Friday’s play. The divide is a little wider in the Western Conference but so far, across the league, it really feels like only Calgary, Nashville and Buffalo have identified themselves as also-rans. There are some familiar teams missing from the Herald’s first Power Rankings of the 2025-26 season. Some we expect will eventually climb in. Edmonton, Tampa Bay and Vegas are in that category. Some may not. Looking at you, Toronto.

Here’s our early look at the top 16 teams (Friday’s games not inclu

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