Early NHL Surprises: Rangers Surge, Red Wings Drama & Sheldon Keefe Hot Seat?

Two weeks into the 2026–27 NHL regular season, sample sizes are growing and early trends are demanding attention. Hosts Nick Zararis and Hunter Hodies break down the true weight of banking early points versus pacing for the postseason. They analyze how established heavyweights coast early while fringe playoff contenders cannot afford a slow start.The crew spotlights the league's biggest early surprises, starting with the New York Rangers' four-game winning streak powered by Igor Shesterkin and Alexis Lafreniere. They also dive into the Winnipeg Jets leading the Central Division behind Stuart Skinner and Kyle Connor despite offseason adversity. Plus, Evan Bouchard's red-hot scoring pace in Edmonton puts his Norris Trophy case under the microscope.Finally, the discussion turns to early warning signs across the league, headlined by the Philadelphia Flyers’ severe offensive drought. The hosts question how much leash New Jersey Devils coach Sheldon Keefe has under a new front office if the losses pile up. They also evaluate the toxic vibes in Detroit amidst Dylan Larkin trade backlash and the Simon Edvinsson contract standoff04:19 Strong start for NHL teams06:57 Teams struggling to make playoffs12:50 Lafreniere's NHL debut and player updates15:23 Winnipeg Jets facing adversity17:32 Impressive NHL team performances21:41 Team's offensive struggles this season24:33 Concerns about Devils' team performance27:28 Team performance and expectationsEarly NHL Surprises: Rangers Surge, Red Wings Drama & Sheldon Keefe Hot Seat?Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!OdooGreat organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.IndeedNow, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply.Butcher BoxIf you're looking for an easier way to get great meals on the table, give ButcherBox a try. Go to https://ButcherBox.com/LOCKEDONNHL to get $20 off your first box, plus your choice of free ribeye, new york strip, or filet mignon in every box for a year — with free shipping always.GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.KALSHIToday's episode is brought to you by Kalshi. For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.FanDuelThis season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.