Predictions for the 2025-26 NHL Season: Teams, Playoffs, and Awards
As the 2025-26 NHL season approaches, excitement builds over player performances, team dynamics, and potential playoff matchups. Here’s a comprehensive forecast from our trio of hockey analysts!
Eastern Conference Predictions
Metro Division Breakdown
- Carolina Hurricanes
- New Jersey Devils
- Washington Capitals
The Metro Division promises intense competition among these teams, with the Hurricanes favored to lead the pack.
Atlantic Division Highlights
- Tampa Bay Lightning
- Toronto Maple Leafs
- Ottawa Senators
Tampa Bay is expected to shine once again in the Atlantic, but don’t count out the resilient Toronto Maple Leafs or the improving Ottawa Senators.
Wild Card Contenders
- Florida Panthers
- New York Rangers
Look out for the Panthers and Rangers as they vie for Wild Card spots, offering thrilling matchups throughout the season.
Western Conference Predictions
Central Division Outlook
- Colorado Avalanche
- Dallas Stars
- Utah Mammoth
The Central Division does not lack firepower, with the Avalanche and Stars being top contenders, while Utah looks to make its mark.
Pacific Division Insights
- Vegas Golden Knights
- Edmonton Oilers
- Los Angeles Kings
As perennial playoff threats, Vegas and Edmonton promise an exciting race for supremacy in the Pacific.
Wild Card Aspirants
- Winnipeg Jets
- Anaheim Ducks
Both Winnipeg and Anaheim have the potential for surprise performances that could earn them a Wild Card entry.
Playoff Predictions
Eastern Conference Finals
- Tampa Bay over Carolina
Expect a fiercely contested series, but veteran experience gives the edge to the Lightning.
Western Conference Finals
- Vegas over Colorado
In a clash of titans, the Golden Knights are predicted to pull through against the Avalanche.
Stanley Cup Final
- Vegas over Tampa Bay
In a compelling showdown, Vegas is favored to capture the trophy, marking a significant season.
Award Predictions
- Hart Trophy (MVP): Nikita Kucherov, Tampa Bay Lightning
- Norris Trophy (Best Defenseman): Quinn Hughes, Vancouver Canucks
- Vezina Trophy (Best Goaltender): Igor Shesterkin, New York Rangers
- Calder Trophy (Rookie of the Year): Ivan Demidov, Montreal Canadiens
- Adams Award (Coach of the Year): Craig Berube, Toronto Maple Leafs
- First Coach to be Fired: Andrew Brunette, Nashville Predators
Additional Insights from Other Analysts
Analyst Mollie Walker’s Viewpoint
Eastern Conference Predictions
- Metro Division: Carolina, Devils, Rangers
- Atlantic Division: Tampa Bay, Florida, Toronto
Western Conference Predictions
- Central Division: Dallas, Minnesota, Colorado
- Pacific Division: Vegas, Edmonton, Los Angeles
Analyst Ethan Sears’ Perspective
Eastern Conference
- Metro Division: Carolina, Devils, Washington
- Atlantic Division: Tampa Bay, Montreal, Florida
Western Conference
- Central Division: Dallas, Winnipeg, Minnesota
- Pacific Division: Los Angeles, Vegas, Edmonton
Conclusion
With the potential for thrilling games and standout performances, the 2025-26 NHL season promises to deliver excitement for fans and teams alike. For more updates, follow the season through reliable sources like NHL.com and team sites for the latest news and schedules.
Stay tuned as the puck drops and the ice heats up this upcoming season!
