Three NHL teams defying expectations this season: How new coaches turned Kraken, Penguins, and Flyers into early contenders

The NHL season is off to a surprising start, with the Seattle Kraken, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Philadelphia Flyers experiencing dramatic turnarounds. Bold coaching changes have instantly revitalized these teams, transforming them into early contenders. New strategies and renewed locker-room energy under coaches like Lane Lambert, Dan Muse, and Rick Tocchet are proving instrumental in their unexpected success.

Three NHL teams defying expectations this season: How new coaches turned Kraken, Penguins, and Flyers into early contenders
The NHL season is off to a surprising start, with the Seattle Kraken, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Philadelphia Flyers experiencing dramatic turnarounds. Bold coaching changes have instantly revitalized these teams, transforming them into early contenders. New strategies and renewed locker-room energy under coaches like Lane Lambert, Dan Muse, and Rick Tocchet are proving instrumental in their unexpected success.