The puck has officially dropped for the 2016-2017 season. Only a handful of games have been played this year and already there are some teams who have made huge impacts. After starting 0-2, the New Jersey Devils have rebounded nicely with a 2-2-1 record thanks to game-winning goals by left winger Taylor Hall and the outstanding play of goaltender Cory Schneider. Hall was acquired through a blockbuster trade during the summer that sent defenseman Adam Larsson to Edmonton and brought him to New Jersey. Schneider has kept the Devils from spiraling out of control with his presence in the crease and his shot-blocking ability. The New York Rangers have scored goals at will despite their 3-2 record on the season. Goalie Henrik Lundqvist has done his part to keep the Rangers in these close, hard-fought games and has shown why he is arguably the greatest goalie in the league.

On the other side of New York, we have the Islanders. They have a 3-3 record to start the season and are looking to advance further into the playoffs after last season’s heartbreak in their second round loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning. Team Captain John Tavares looks to be the spark his team needs to reach their playoff aspirations. These Metropolitan teams seem to have bright futures but only time will tell who gets into the playoffs and who is left on the outside looking in. This NHL season is shaping up to be a good one so nobody will want to miss it.