The 2025-26 NHL season opens with a tripleheader on Tuesday, but all 32 teams had to submit their Opening Night rosters.

Several young players made good impressions throughout training camp and earned themselves a spot on their respective teams.

Defenseman Matthew Schaefer , the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NHL Draft by the New York Islanders, and forward Michael Misa , the No. 2 pick by the San Jose Sharks, were expected to make their respective teams -- and did.

Still, there were other players who were not necessarily expected to make the team out of training camp.

Here are 12 who were surprise additions to the roster, according to NHL.com:

Nikita Chibrikov , Winnipeg Jets

Injuries up front opened the door for Chibrikov to make the Jets roster, and the 22-year-old took advantage.

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