The NHL's Best Duos Entering the 2026-27 Season

New Jersey Devils forward Jesper Bratt during a game against the Seattle Kraken on Dec. 7, 2023. Photo by Jenn G.

Written By Gina Anton

Hockey may be the ultimate team sport, but every Stanley Cup contender has at least one pairing that drives its success.

Some duos overwhelm opponents with elite offensive production. Others dominate possession or create scoring chances every time they step on the ice. Heading into the 2026-27 season, these four combinations stand above the rest, not simply because of individual talent, but because of the chemistry they've built together.

David Pastrňák and Elias Lindholm — Boston Bruins

This may be the biggest projection on the list, but it's one that could pay off for Boston.

Pastrňák has established himself as one of the NHL's premier goal scorers, capable of changing a game with one shot. The bigger question entering last season was whether Lindholm could become the Bruins' long-term answer down the middle after arriving on a seven-year contract.

Lindholm's first season in Boston didn't fully meet expectations, but signs of chemistry with Pastrňák emerged as the season progressed. His responsible two-way game allowed Pastrňák more freedom offensively, while his playmaking ability helped create additional scoring opportunities for Boston's top winger.

If Lindholm takes another step offensively in 2026-27, this duo has the potential to become one of the Eastern Conference's most productive pairings. Boston doesn't necessarily need Lindholm to score 90 points; they need him to consistently complement Pastrňák, and that's exactly where this partnership could flourish if they stay on the same line.

Jack Hughes and Jesper Bratt — New Jersey Devils

Few players in the NHL think the game as quickly as Jack Hughes and Jesper Bratt.

The pair has become the heartbeat of New Jersey's offense thanks to their speed, creativity, and ability to generate scoring chances off the rush. Hughes forces defenders to back off with his skating, while Bratt's vision and quick decision-making make him the perfect complement.

What separates this duo from many others is their unpredictability. Both players can score, distribute the puck, or create offense seemingly out of nothing, making them incredibly difficult to defend.

If the Devils are going to contend for the Metropolitan Division, it will likely begin with Hughes and Bratt driving the offense once again.

Aleksander Barkov and Sam Reinhart — Florida Panthers

Every championship team needs a duo it can trust in every situation.

For Florida, that's Barkov and Reinhart.

Barkov remains one of hockey's best two-way centers, capable of shutting down elite opponents while still producing at an elite offensive level. Reinhart complements him perfectly with his finishing ability, hockey IQ, and knack for finding open ice.

What makes this pairing so dangerous isn't just the offense, it's how complete they are. They can control possession, kill penalties, dominate on the power play, and consistently play against the opposition's best players. Barkov creates space through his puck protection and patience, while Reinhart has become one of the league's smartest finishers around the net.

Their chemistry has become one of the biggest reasons Florida remains among the NHL's elite.

Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl — Edmonton Oilers

Until someone proves otherwise, this remains the NHL's gold standard.

McDavid and Draisaitl have spent years redefining what two superstars can accomplish together. Whether they're sharing a line or driving separate units before being reunited late in games, their chemistry is unmatched.

McDavid's speed creates chaos every shift, while Draisaitl's elite vision and finishing ability make him the perfect running mate. Opposing defenses know exactly what's coming, yet stopping it remains one of hockey's most difficult tasks.

What truly separates them from every other duo is their ability to elevate each other's game. Plenty of duos can dominate stretches of a game. McDavid and Draisaitl have spent years proving they can dominate entire seasons.