NHL breakout tiers: Predicting the new wave of superstars

Greg Wyshynski, ESPNOct 1, 2024, 07:00 AM ETCloseGreg Wyshynski is ESPN’s senior NHL writer.Lucas Raymond had that breakout player aura last season.The Detroit Red Wings winger had a strong rookie season in 2021-22, followed by a dip in production. He entered last season primed to break out, thanks in part to improved linemates, and break out he did: 31 goals and 72 points that resulted in an eight-year, $64.6 million contract extension this offseason.There are plenty of players this season who have a similar aura. Some are familiar names placed in advantageous situations; some are rookie sensations; and some could be the next Lucas Raymond, who go from young standouts to NHL stars.Here are 36 players who could be breakouts in 2024-25, organized into tiers.Jump to a tier:New sceneryNew linematesYoung star to major starThe wait is overRookie breakouts