Bright Lights, Low Expectations: Which Teams Will Disappoint in 2026?
As the new year approaches, anticipation is building for the upcoming 2026 season of professional sports. Fans are eagerly awaiting the starts of the NFL, MLB, and NHL seasons, and speculation is running high about which teams will rise to the top. However, not all teams are created equal, and some are likely to fall short of their lofty expectations. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the teams that are primed for disappointment in 2026.
NFL Disappointment: The Kansas City Chiefs
After losing star quarterback Patrick Mahomes for several games last season due to a number of injuries, the Kansas City Chiefs were able to ride their wings in the clutch, ultimately securing their first Super Bowl title in franchise history. However, with Mahomes still young and susceptible to repeat injuries, the team is likely to struggle this season. The loss of key players like Chris Jones and Damien Wilson won’t help matters, and a tough early-season schedule will put additional pressure on the team.
MLB Disappointment: The Los Angeles Dodgers
The Los Angeles Dodgers have been one of the most consistent teams in the National League over the past decade, winning six consecutive division titles and four league pennants. However, with the loss of core players like Joc Pederson and Justin Turner, the team’s offense is likely to struggle. A lack of depth in the starting rotation and bullpen won’t help matters, and a tough division schedule could spell disaster for the Dodgers in 2026.
NHL Disappointment: The Vegas Golden Knights
The Vegas Golden Knights have been the class of the Western Conference since their expansion in 2017, making the Stanley Cup Finals in their inaugural season and near-misses in the following years. However, the team’s reliance on goalie Marc-Andre Fleury has become a weakness, and his departure in the off-season has left a huge void. The team’s offense, which was already struggling, will only be more hamstrung without a reliable No. 1 goalie, making the Golden Knights prime candidates for disappointment in 2026.
Closing the Door on Disappointment?
While it’s always tough to prophesize the future, these teams have a number of factors working against them that suggest a subpar season is in store. Injuries, player departures, and lack of depth in key areas have all contributed to their potential for disappointment. However, it’s also worth noting that baseball, football, and hockey are games of inches, and even the most struggling teams can get hot and make a deep run into the playoffs.
As the season approaches, fans of these teams can only hope that their team can defy the odds and bounce back from their predicted disappointments. After all, it’s the thrill of the game that makes it so captivating, and even the most skeptical of fans can’t help but get caught up in the excitement of the season. But for now, these three teams are looking like prime candidates for a disappointing 2026.
