2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs: Expert Predictions & Stanley Cup Winner Picks
The 2026 Stanley Cup playoffs are wide open after the two-time defending champion Florida Panthers failed to qualify. With several recent champions and hungry contenders in the mix, here are the Stanley Cup Final predictions and picks from USA TODAY’s hockey experts:
Mike Brehm’s Prediction
Stanley Cup Final: Colorado Avalanche vs. Tampa Bay Lightning
Stanley Cup Winner: Colorado Avalanche
Playoff MVP: Nathan MacKinnon Reasoning: Despite the Presidents’ Trophy curse, Brehm believes the Avalanche are simply too deep and experienced. They have already won a championship together and are coached by a Stanley Cup winner. He expects a rematch of the 2022 Final, with Colorado coming out on top again.
Jace Evans’ Prediction
Stanley Cup Final: Montreal Canadiens vs. Edmonton Oilers
Stanley Cup Winner: Edmonton Oilers
Playoff MVP: Connor McDavid Reasoning: Evans is betting on Canada’s long Cup drought finally ending. He puts heavy faith in Connor McDavid, who just won his sixth scoring title and has a strong history of playoff dominance. Edmonton also benefits from what appears to be the easiest path in the Pacific Division.
Kevin Skiver’s Prediction
Stanley Cup Final: Dallas Stars vs. Tampa Bay Lightning
Stanley Cup Winner: Dallas Stars
Playoff MVP: Mikko Rantanen Reasoning: The Stars have been consistent contenders for years. Skiver thinks this is the year Dallas finally breaks through and wins the Stanley Cup, using their playoff experience to defeat a veteran Tampa Bay team in the Final.
Consensus & Outlook
Most experts are leaning toward Western Conference teams making the Final.
The Edmonton Oilers (led by Connor McDavid) represent the biggest “Canadian hope” pick.
Colorado and Dallas are seen as the safest bets by the panel due to their depth and experience.
This year’s playoffs feature many big-market teams and franchises looking to end long title droughts, making it one of the most unpredictable postseasons in recent memory.
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