NHL power ratings: Avalanche lead the pack after Week 1 of 2025-26 season

Here is a 174-word summary of the news article: The Colorado Avalanche are leading the NHL power rankings after the first week of the 2025-26 season, according to SportsLine NHL analyst Scott Erskine. The Avalanche topped Erskine's list, followed by the Tampa Bay Lightning, Boston Bruins, Carolina Hurricanes, and Vegas Golden Knights in the top 5. Erskine highlighted the Avalanche's strong start, led by their elite offensive talent and improved defense. The Lightning, Bruins, and Hurricanes are also among the top teams, with the Lightning's depth and the Bruins' goaltending standing out. The Golden Knights rounded out the top 5, with Erskine praising their balanced roster and ability to compete with the league's best. The New York Rangers, Florida Panthers, Toronto Maple Leafs, Minnesota Wild, and Washington Capitals completed the top 10. The rankings provide an early snapshot of the NHL landscape, with several contenders jockeying for position in the first week of the new season.