NHL Scoring Surges Following Shorter Preseason Schedule

NHL teams averaged 6.26 goals per game through the first 110 contests, an increase from the 6.1 average recorded during the same period last year.

The first 110 games of the NHL season featured 344 total goals, resulting in a scoring average of 6.26 per game. This mark exceeds the 6.1 average seen through 112 games last season. High-scoring results during the opening three days included a 9-7 victory for Vancouver over Edmonton, an 8-4 win for Colorado against Los Angeles, and a 7-0 Pittsburgh shutout of Philadelphia. Oilers defenseman Evan Bouchard leads the league with six goals, while Rangers goaltender Igor Shesterkin recorded a goal by shooting into an empty net.

Special teams efficiency has contributed to the offensive output, with power plays clicking at a 20.9% success rate compared to 19.8% a year ago. The Utah Mammoth lead the league with a 61.5% power play conversion rate, supported by Dylan Guenther’s league-high six power play points. Conversely, goaltending statistics have declined; the league-wide average save percentage currently sits at .890, down from the .896 mark recorded last season.

League data shows that 22 games have already been decided by three or more goals. Defensive play has been characterized by more than 16 giveaways per game and frequent odd-man rushes. Coaches, including the Islanders' Peter DeBoer and the Devils' Sheldon Keefe, attributed the early-season results to shorter training camps and reduced exhibition schedules, which have left teams prioritizing specific tactical areas over total defensive cohesion.