As we hit the holidays of the 2024-2025 NHL season, it's always fun to look for players who could potentially hit the 70-point mark for the first time. This list focuses on players currently hovering around or below a 70-point pace. These players may be near the milestone, but remember, it's no guarantee. Some are benefitting from unsustainable metrics, while others just need a few things to fall into place. It's a fine line, but that's what makes this exercise so intriguing. Enjoy!

10. Josh Norris

Josh Norris has been solid for the Senators with 12 goals and 7 assists in 28 games. His shooting percentage is slightly higher than his career average, but his eight power-play points show there's upside in his game. Averaging nearly 19 minutes of ice time, with more than 3 minutes on the power play, and centering Brady Tkachuk and Drake Batherson – Norris has a chance. However, injury concerns have always been a factor for him and maintaining his current efficiency could be tricky. He needs to stay on track and if he can rack up some more assists, he should inch closer to that 70-point threshold.

9.  Oliver Bjorkstrand

We’ve seen this before, or at least hoped for it too many times. Last year, Bjorkstrand set a career-high with 58 points and has been seen consistently producing 20-goal seasons and solid shot volume. He's an important piece of Seattle's improving offense. Playing with talented forwards like Matty Beniers and Jared McCann, and getting top power-play minutes, gives him plenty of opportunities. However, he needs more than a third-line role to take the next step. Seattle’s well-balanced lineup makes things unpredictable, but with the Kraken's improving power play, Bjorkstrand could see a boost in numbers, especially if he earns more time higher up in the lineup.

8.  Vince Dunn

Vince Dunn was out part of the season due to injury and he picked up right where he left off following a career-high 64-point season last year. Dunn has been integral to the Kraken's man-advantage and is averaging 22 minutes per game. His underlying stats, shot volume and expected goals, show he's on a solid growth trajectory. However, Seattle's depth may cap his ceiling a bit. While 70 points is within reach, he'll need to stay efficient and maintain his role to push that high.

7.  William Eklund

William Eklund has been showing steady and noticeable offensive upside. After 31 games, he's recorded 24 points, including three power-play points. He is currently on a 0.77 ppg pace, projecting for 63 points over 82 games while averaging over 20mins TOI. Eklund's consistent ice time and growing role on the power play shows promise, even if 70 points might be a stretch with the Sharks in rebuild mode. There will be ups and downs on this team, but if his role expands and his shooting efficiency improves, there's potential for a surprise breakout.

6.  Jake DeBrusk

Jake DeBrusk has been red-hot to start the season, posting 23 points in 28 games. His 20.9% shooting percentage suggests some regression may be on the horizon, but he's making the most of his opportunities. The key to his pursuit of a 70-point season lies in his growing chemistry with Pettersson and on the man-advantage. DeBrusk is known for his streaky play, so his point total could fluctuate widely, with a final point production ranging anywhere from 50 to 70 points (I know that's crazy!). He has hit the 65-point pace before so if he stays healthy and continues to get those chances, 70 points could be within reach.

5.  Marco Rossi

Marco Rossi has taken advantage of the opportunities given to him due to injuries to JEE. Last year, he posted 31 points in 66 games. Playing in Minnesota's top six alongside Matt Boldy and Kirill Kaprizov would do wonders to anyone's production. He's playing over 17:21 per night, although his power-play role is still limited and when JEE returns that may drop further. Rossi will need to go on a hot streak to push for 70 and make a case to stay on the top unit.  

4. Tom Wilson

Known for his physical play and occasional offensive contributions, Wilson is currently on pace for a 68-point season, which would represent a major leap from his 35-point output last year. This season, his role has expanded alongside stars like Alex Ovechkin, Dylan Strome, and up-and-comer Connor McMichael. Like many of the aging players on this Capitals team, he is riding this new lease on life. While his 19.4% shooting percentage might regress, Wilson has the potential to hit 70 points, but it's clear that consistency will be key for him to break through that threshold.

3.  Kirill Marchenko

Kirill Marchenko is having a strong third season with the Blue Jackets, notching 29 points in 31 games, which puts him on pace for nearly a ppg. That's a big jump from his 44 points in 78 games last season. If he continues at this rate, he could easily surpass 70 points. His shooting percentage is in line with his career average, and he's averaging 2.7 shots per game. He's also getting more ice time, with 18:09 per game compared to 16:25 last year. At his current pace of 0.94 points per game, he's on track for 77 points over a full season, so hitting 70 points seems like a very achievable milestone.

2.  Logan Cooley

Logan Cooley is on the fast track to surpassing 70 points this season. As the center for Clayton Keller and Nick Schmaltz, Cooley's dynamic skill set fits perfectly with their playing styles. He has elite offensive instincts, especially in generating high-danger chances and controlling zone entries. Cooley's ability to drive play is crucial for Utah's attack, making him a key offensive piece. Currently on pace for 68 points, hitting 70+ is definitely realistic if he continues to see consistent ice time and power-play opportunities. If the top six clicks, Cooley could very well be a breakout candidate this season.

1.  Seth Jarvis

Seth Jarvis has firmly established himself as a key piece of the Hurricanes’ success following a career-high 67 points last season. His scoring touch is complemented by a well-rounded game that shines in both power play and penalty kill situations. Jarvis has developed solid chemistry with Carolina's core, especially on their dangerous power play, which only boosts his upside. Heading into his fourth season, Jarvis is set for another leap forward. If he wasn't injured this season, I suspect his point totals would be higher. With health, top-line minutes, and an expanded power-play role, reaching the 70-point mark is in the cards.

Thanks for reading! See you next week. For more content/fantasy hockey analysis, follow and message me on X @Punters_hockey.