5 Huge October Surprises in the NHL

The opening month of the regular NHL season delivered a wealth of unexpected stories. With all 32 teams starting fresh, fans witnessed both surprising successes and disappointing performances. As usual, October didn’t fail to entertain.

The Unexpected Rise of the Penguins

Few predicted that the Pittsburgh Penguins would finish October leading the NHL standings. A team many dismissed as past its prime showed that experience still matters.

“Never count out a team with Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin on it.”

With a strong 8-2-2 start, the Penguins thrived on Evgeni Malkin’s resurgence and a surprisingly solid defense. Malkin’s 17 points—including three goals—proved he remains an elite player capable of dominating stretches of play.

Supporting Cast Steps Up

Beyond their stars, unexpected contributors like Justin Brazeau and Anthony Mantha combined for 23 points, while rookie Ben Kindel exceeded early projections. This mix of rejuvenated veterans and young promise turned October into a dream start for Pittsburgh fans.

Looking Ahead

Whether the Penguins can maintain this momentum remains to be seen. For now, their early success offers a chance for fans to appreciate legendary players while witnessing a gradual transition toward the future.

Author’s Summary

October in the NHL showcased surprising twists, with the Penguins’ veteran power and youthful drive making them the standout story of the season’s opening month.

Substack — 2025-11-03