Western Power Dominates NHL.com’s 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs Predictions
Alright, hockey fans — it’s that electric time of the year again. The 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs are knocking at the door, and NHL.com has dropped their official predictions, sparking debates and excitement all across the hockey world. Sixteen of the NHL’s top writers and editors have laid out their full playoff brackets, Conn Smythe Trophy picks, and of course, who they believe will lift Lord Stanley’s Cup when all is said and done.
What stands out most in this year’s forecast? The clear dominance of the Western Conference in the eyes of the experts. Out of the 16 contributors, a whopping 13 predicted a Western team would take the Cup home. The Colorado Avalanche lead the charge with four votes to win it all. Following closely behind are the Winnipeg Jets, Vegas Golden Knights, and Dallas Stars, each earning three picks apiece. Meanwhile, over in the East, only two teams broke through the Western wall — the Tampa Bay Lightning with two votes and the reigning champion Florida Panthers with just one.
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Now, let’s talk MVPs. The Conn Smythe Trophy conversation is just as competitive. Avalanche star Nathan MacKinnon is leading the pack with four picks, proving he's still one of the most electrifying players in the game. Jack Eichel of the Golden Knights and Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck trail closely with three selections each. And don’t overlook Dallas’ goalie Jake Oettinger, who received a pair of nods, or his teammate Mikko Rantanen with one.
There’s a lot of drama built into this year’s first-round matchups too. The Avalanche and Stars — both predicted to make deep runs — are squaring off right out of the gate. The Florida Panthers and Tampa Bay Lightning, the two Florida juggernauts, are also clashing early in what’s sure to be a brutal Sunshine State showdown.
Interestingly, while Colorado is the most-picked team to win it all, we still see diversity in predictions. Some are riding with the Jets’ goaltending power, others banking on Vegas’ consistency, and a few seeing Dallas as the total package. Over in the East, there’s belief that Tampa Bay can rekindle its championship magic, and that Florida might repeat last year’s glory.
From veteran columnists to fantasy gurus, the consensus is clear: this year’s playoffs are going to be wild, competitive, and full of surprises. Whether you're cheering for the Capitals, hoping for a Cinderella run from the Canadiens, or putting your chips on Colorado, one thing’s for sure — the road to the Stanley Cup is going to be one intense ride.
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