NHL Players Poised for Comeback in 2025-26 Season

As the NHL gears up for the 2025-26 season, several players are set to make a significant comeback after lackluster performances in previous years. The league often witnesses surprising turnarounds, as individuals navigate challenges like injuries, coaching changes, or shifts in team dynamics. This season, particular focus is on players who may recapture their previous form, potentially altering their careers and impacting their teams.

Goaltenders Looking to Rebound

Starting with goaltenders, **Tristan Jarry** of the **Pittsburgh Penguins** has faced a tumultuous couple of seasons since signing a five-year contract on **July 1, 2023**. After being demoted to the AHL twice and going unclaimed through waivers, Jarry’s situation appeared dire. Yet, he ended the last season on a positive note, achieving an **8-4-2 record** with two shutouts in his final games. With low expectations surrounding the Penguins this year, Jarry might find the pressure off, potentially allowing him to rediscover his confidence and skill.

Another goaltender, **Jordan Binnington** of the **St. Louis Blues**, also experienced a rocky start last season. His performance dipped to a **.891 save percentage (SV%)** in the opening months, prompting a coaching change to Jim Montgomery. Following this shift, Binnington rebounded with a **.905 SV%** for the remainder of the season. As he aims for a spot on Team Canada for the upcoming Olympics, Binnington will have added motivation to demonstrate his capabilities as a starting goaltender.

Defensive Players on the Comeback Trail

On the blue line, **Rasmus Andersson** of the **Calgary Flames** stands out. Coming off a season where he recorded his lowest point total in four years, Andersson finished with a concerning **49.1% even-strength Corsi for percentage (CF%)**. However, lingering injuries, including a broken fibula, were likely contributors to his struggles. With the upcoming season marking his last year before unrestricted free agency, a return to form could secure him a lucrative contract.

Shifting focus to forwards, **Auston Matthews** of the **Toronto Maple Leafs** had a notably disappointing season, scoring **33 goals and 45 assists** in **67 games**, a stark decline of **36 goals** from the previous year. Matthews revealed that injuries impacted his performance, which could explain his dip in production. If he returns to full health, he may once again compete for the league’s goal-scoring title, given his track record as a **three-time Rocket Richard Trophy winner**.

**Elias Pettersson** of the **Vancouver Canucks** also saw his offensive output plummet, going from **89 points** in the **2023-24 season** to just **45 points** last season. A notable rift with former teammate J.T. Miller likely affected his performance. As the Canucks depend on Pettersson, who is under contract for another seven seasons at **$11.6 million annually**, a return to form is essential for the team’s success.

Veteran forward **Evgeni Malkin** of the Penguins, now at age **39**, continues to be a key figure. Although he demonstrated relative productivity last season, the lack of quality linemates hindered his performance. Malkin’s production will depend significantly on who he plays alongside this season. With an improved forward core, he may find the support necessary to elevate his game as he approaches what could be his final NHL season.

Lastly, **Andrei Kuzmenko** of the **Los Angeles Kings** is another player to watch. After a solid start to his career, Kuzmenko’s shooting percentage is unlikely to reach the **27.3%** he achieved as a rookie. However, following a trade to the Kings, he finished with **five goals and 12 assists** in **22 regular-season games** and continued to play well in the playoffs. With a full season ahead, Kuzmenko could rebound and contribute significantly to the Kings’ offensive efforts.

The unpredictability of bounce-back seasons makes the upcoming NHL campaign intriguing. Players like Matthews and Pettersson, still in their prime, have the potential to return to their best, while veterans like Malkin face the challenge of proving they still belong in the league. As the new season approaches, fans will be keenly watching these players, hoping for a resurgence that could significantly impact their respective teams.