The Florida Panthers are gearing up to defend their Stanley Cup title, but the Edmonton Oilers are hungry to go from runners-up to champions. The Eastern Conference wild-card race is also heating up with teams vying for a spot in the playoffs.
In a recent poll conducted by The Athletic, NHL staff members shared their season predictions, focusing on team expectations. Who will make the playoffs? Which teams are the dark horses to watch out for? And which fan base is in for disappointment?
To provide insight, context, and analysis of the poll results, NHL senior writers James Mirtle and Sean Gentille, analytics expert Shayna Goldman, and betting guru Jesse Granger have shared their thoughts.
Mirtle expressed optimism for the Carolina Hurricanes, saying, “I feel special with the lone Hurricanes pick. Maybe this is finally the year? Right?” Granger had high hopes for the New Jersey Devils, pointing out their talented roster, motivation, and the addition of top goalie Jacob Markstrom.
When discussing Cup Final predictions, Granger revealed, “Our consensus pick is Oilers over Rangers. You can bet on that exact result at 66-1 odds.” Mirtle jokingly added, “Pray for Yaroslav Askarov, friends,” with Granger chiming in, “And Mackenzie Blackwood.”
Gentille was cautious about the San Jose Sharks, noting that despite adding new players, significant changes may not occur immediately. The analysts’ projections ranged from teams expected to earn 100-plus points to those forecasted to finish between 85 and 100 points.
Granger stood by his pick for the Devils to win the Cup, stating, “The Devils are my pick to win the Cup, so I kind of had to pick them here.” As the season unfolds, hockey fans will eagerly watch to see if the Florida Panthers can repeat as champions or if the Edmonton Oilers will rise to the top of the NHL.
