2026 NHL Playoff Stanley Cup Predictions
The Eastern and Western both conferences would feature tight playoff races and surprising contenders. Let’s break down who’s most likely to make the postseason, who could surprise, and which team has the best chance to lift the Stanley Cup this spring.
Eastern Conference Predictions
1. New Jersey Devils
New Jersey continues to prove they’re among the East’s elite. Their fast-paced offense and improving defense have them leading the conference. With Jack Hughes healthy and the power play clicking, they look primed for another deep playoff run. Expect the Devils to finish as the top seed in the East.
2. Carolina Hurricanes
Carolina remains one of the league’s most complete teams. They dominate puck possession, kill penalties efficiently, and have elite goaltending depth. The Canes’ playoff experience gives them a clear advantage once the postseason grind begins.
3. Boston Bruins
Boston’s seven-game win streak has them right back in contention. Their strong home record and defensive structure continue to frustrate opponents. Don’t count them out – the Bruins have a playoff pedigree and could easily steal a second-round series.
4. Montreal Canadiens
Montreal’s youth movement is paying off sooner than expected. They’re playing with confidence and scoring depth, led by Cole Caufield and Nick Suzuki. Their speed could make them a tough out, but playoff experience remains a question mark.
5. NY Rangers
Despite a shaky home start, the Rangers’ dominant road record and Igor Shesterkin’s form make them a dangerous wild card. If their top line finds consistency, they’ll be a legitimate threat in the first round.
Playoff Bubble Teams:
Pittsburgh and Ottawa are hovering close, but inconsistent defense may keep them just outside. Tampa Bay and Florida are both underperforming compared to expectations — they’ll need a strong December to climb back into the race.
East Finals Prediction:
Carolina Hurricanes vs New Jersey Devils – Experience vs. explosiveness. The Devils’ speed could overwhelm Carolina, but the Canes’ balance gives them the edge.
- Pick: Carolina Hurricanes advance to the Stanley Cup Final.
Western Conference Predictions
1. Colorado Avalanche
The Avalanche look unstoppable again. With elite offensive depth led by Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen, plus one of the best goal differentials in the league, Colorado is the clear Cup favorite. Their combination of speed, skill, and structure is unmatched.
2. Dallas Stars
Dallas continues to grind out points with disciplined play and balanced scoring. They’re built for playoff hockey – strong goaltending, a reliable blue line, and playoff-tested veterans. Expect them to make another deep run.
3. Anaheim Ducks
One of this year’s biggest surprises, Anaheim has blended youthful energy with solid goaltending. Their aggressive forecheck and improving special teams could make them a dark-horse playoff team, though they might struggle in a seven-game series against elite competition.
4. Winnipeg Jets
A balanced attack and consistent goaltending have Winnipeg looking strong again. They may not have the firepower to win the West, but they’re a team no one wants to face in the first round.
5. Los Angeles Kings
LA’s road success has been impressive, and their defensive system remains solid. If they can fix their home-ice issues, they’ll be a strong wild-card team capable of an upset.
Playoff Bubble Teams:
Edmonton’s offense is too good to miss the postseason, but their defense must tighten up. Utah and Chicago are exciting, but lack the depth to sustain a full playoff push.
West Finals Prediction:
Colorado Avalanche vs. Dallas Stars – A rematch of playoff powerhouses. The Stars will push hard, but Colorado’s depth and experience should prevail.
- Pick: Colorado Avalanche advance to the Stanley Cup Final.
Stanley Cup Final Prediction:
Colorado Avalanche vs Carolina Hurricanes
Two well-balanced, veteran squads with elite goaltending and strong systems. Carolina’s structure and discipline will challenge Colorado, but the Avs’ firepower and playoff experience should make the difference.
2026 Stanley Cup Champion: Colorado Avalanche
They have the depth, leadership, and scoring to reclaim the Cup – and no one in the league matches their overall consistency right now.