Every NHL season has its surprises — players who rise above expectations, veterans turning back the clock, and lesser-known names proving their worth. The 2024-25 campaign has been packed with stories of underdog excellence and breakout performances. Whether it’s players signed on team-friendly contracts or those thriving in new environments, these skaters have become key reasons for their teams’ success this year.
Let’s take a closer look at five players who have far outperformed what anyone predicted before the season began.
Matt Duchene: A Bargain Star in Dallas
After scoring 65 points in 2023-24, Matt Duchene re-signed with the Dallas Stars on a surprising one-year deal worth just $3 million. It turned out to be one of the league’s best-value signings. At age 34, Duchene is second in team scoring with 29 goals and 78 points in 76 games. He’s now just one goal away from hitting the 30-goal mark for only the third time in his NHL career.
With the Stars preparing for a playoff run, Duchene’s experience, production, and leadership will be huge assets. Given his low cap hit, there’s a solid argument that he’s been one of the most valuable players in the NHL relative to salary this season.
Jesper Bratt: Leading the Devils Without Hughes
When Jack Hughes went down with an injury, many assumed the New Jersey Devils’ offense would struggle. But Jesper Bratt stepped up in a big way. The sixth-round pick from 2016 has become a primary playmaker, especially since taking on a larger role alongside Nico Hischier.
Bratt has recorded 16 assists and 20 points in his last 15 games, maintaining over a point-per-game pace for the second straight year. With the Devils eyeing a deep playoff push, Bratt’s emergence as a consistent top-line forward is one of their biggest advantages heading into the postseason.
Zach Werenski: Columbus’ Cornerstone on Defense
The Columbus Blue Jackets have had a surprising bounce-back season, and Zach Werenski is a big reason why. Known for his offensive upside, Werenski has taken his game to a new level in 2024-25. With a stronger supporting cast, Columbus’ offense jumped from 25th to 10th in goals per game, and Werenski thrived in the new system.
He’s posted 74 points, second only to Cale Makar among defensemen, and is one of just three D-men averaging over a point per game. Even more impressively, he leads the entire league in ice time, playing 27:01 minutes per game — the first to average over 27 minutes since Dustin Byfuglien in 2016-17.
Even if he doesn’t win the Norris Trophy, Werenski has proven he’s one of the NHL’s elite defensemen and a true leader for Columbus.
Ryan Donato: A Shining Light in Chicago
Offense hasn’t come easy for the Chicago Blackhawks, but Ryan Donato has been a quiet standout. At just $2 million, Donato has delivered career-best numbers and is just one goal shy of the 30-goal mark. His 59 points in 74 games currently tie him with Connor Bedard for the team lead.
While Donato has benefited from a bigger role on a rebuilding team, his consistent performance has made him a top trade target and one of the season’s best low-cost performers. Whether he stays in Chicago or moves elsewhere, he’s proven he belongs in a top-six role.
Mikael Granlund: Quietly Boosting Dallas’ Depth
One of the more underrated deadline acquisitions this season, Mikael Granlund has made an instant impact with the Dallas Stars. Coming from the San Jose Sharks, where he had 45 points in 52 games, Granlund was known more for his playmaking than goal-scoring.
Now in a reduced role in Dallas, he’s still producing — with 18 points in 25 games despite averaging over three minutes less per game. His experience, calm play, and skill add even more depth to a Stars team already stacked for a deep playoff run.
From savvy signings to players stepping up in bigger roles, the 2024-25 NHL season has been full of surprises. Matt Duchene, Jesper Bratt, Zach Werenski, Ryan Donato, and Mikael Granlund have all exceeded expectations in their own unique ways.
They’ve not only helped their teams but also shown that value isn’t just about star power — it’s about impact, consistency, and seizing the opportunity. As we head toward the playoffs, keep an eye on these names. Their performances could be the difference-makers in the chase for the Stanley Cup.
