Welcome back to NHL action! If you`re just tuning in since the Florida Panthers` Stanley Cup victory last June, here`s a quick guide to get you up to speed for the 2025 playoffs.
For dedicated fans, consider this your refresher before the puck drops this Saturday. Enjoy the games!
Where Did the Usual Top Teams Go?
This NHL season was historic, but not in a way that favored traditional powerhouse teams. For the first time, the Boston Bruins, Chicago Blackhawks, Detroit Red Wings, and New York Rangers all missed the playoffs in the same year:
- Chicago is currently rebuilding.
- Detroit aimed to exit their rebuild but missed the playoffs for the ninth consecutive season, even after a coaching change. This marks the sixth season without a playoff appearance under General Manager Steve Yzerman.
- The Bruins fired their coach early in the season and traded veteran players, missing the playoffs for the first time in nine years.
- The Rangers, after having the best record in the league, dropped out of playoff contention, hinting at potential major offseason changes.
Other 2024 playoff teams like the New York Islanders, Nashville Predators, and Vancouver Canucks also didn`t qualify this season. Sidney Crosby and the Pittsburgh Penguins are out of the playoffs for the third year in a row.
The 2025 playoffs will lack some of the usual big-name franchises and star players, creating opportunities for new teams and players to shine.
Can the Panthers Win Again?
The defending champion Panthers finished third in their division with 98 points, a decrease from their previous 110-point season, largely due to injuries. Captain Aleksander Barkov and Matthew Tkachuk both faced limited playing time due to injuries. Key defenseman Aaron Ekblad was also suspended and could return in the first round against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Despite these challenges, some key players from last year`s championship team remain, including Sam Reinhart, known for his offensive and defensive skills, along with playoff performers Carter Verhaeghe, Sam Bennett, and Gustav Forsling.
However, the supporting cast has changed, with some players moving on and new additions like Seth Jones and Brad Marchand joining the team. The Panthers have the talent to make another deep playoff run, but team cohesion will be crucial under Coach Paul Maurice.
Can the Lightning Win the Cup if They Beat Florida?
The Tampa Bay Lightning, finishing second in their division, feel like a stronger contender this year. They led the league in goals per game, driven by Nikita Kucherov, the league`s top scorer, and strong performances from Brayden Point and Jake Guentzel. Brandon Hagel and Anthony Cirelli also had standout seasons.
Victor Hedman anchors the defense, but the resurgence of goalie Andrei Vasilevskiy is a major boost to their Cup aspirations. If Vasilevskiy maintains his top form in the playoffs, Tampa Bay could be a serious threat.
Having reacquired key players from their previous Cup wins, Ryan McDonagh and Yanni Gourde, the Lightning are aiming to recapture their championship magic.
What to Expect from the Battle of Ontario?
The playoff format has set up a Battle of Ontario between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Ottawa Senators. The Senators ended a seven-year playoff drought, adding extra excitement to this rivalry.
The Maple Leafs are still pursuing their first Stanley Cup since 1967, relying on stars like Mitch Marner, William Nylander, and Auston Matthews. Their goaltending, led by Joseph Woll and Anthony Stolarz, is a key factor, despite limited playoff experience.
For the Senators, this playoff appearance marks Brady Tkachuk`s first. Key players include Tim Stutzle and Jake Sanderson, but goalie Linus Ullmark, acquired in the offseason, needs to prove his playoff capabilities.
Can Ovechkin Add a Stanley Cup to His Goals Record?
After Alex Ovechkin broke Wayne Gretzky`s goals record, the Washington Capitals surprisingly topped their conference. The team`s offseason acquisitions and the performance of young players have been key to their success.
While the Capitals have had a strong regular season, their playoff performance is uncertain due to a lack of established star power beyond Ovechkin. However, a Stanley Cup win for Ovechkin after breaking the goal record would be an incredible achievement.
Are the Devils Done Without Jack Hughes?
The New Jersey Devils face a significant challenge without their injured leading scorer, Jack Hughes. Since his injury, their performance has declined. However, players like Nico Hischier and Jesper Bratt have stepped up.
The Devils` playoff success heavily depends on goaltending, particularly Jacob Markstrom`s consistency.
Is This Carolina`s Year?
The Carolina Hurricanes have consistently fallen short in previous playoffs. Despite roster changes, they remain a strong, possession-based team with a top penalty kill.
Offensive contributions from Sebastian Aho and Seth Jarvis are important, but questions remain about their overall scoring depth and goaltending consistency.
Despite these questions, Carolina could still break through in the East with the right breaks and key goals.
Dallas vs. Colorado: Peak Playoff Drama?
The Dallas Stars and Colorado Avalanche series is highly anticipated, featuring compelling storylines. The Stars are considered Cup contenders, while the Avalanche have retooled after a previous playoff loss to Dallas.
The Avalanche traded Mikko Rantanen, who then signed with Dallas, adding extra intrigue. Injury concerns for key Dallas players like Miro Heiskanen and Jason Robertson could impact the series.
Adding to the drama, Colorado captain Gabriel Landeskog might return after a long injury absence, making this series a must-watch.
New Faces to Watch?
The Avalanche made significant additions, including goalie Mackenzie Blackwood and forwards Brock Nelson and Charlie Coyle. The Bruins traded Brandon Carlo to Toronto. Ottawa acquired Dylan Cozens, and Tampa Bay added Oliver Bjorkstrand.
Rookies to Watch?
Keep an eye on Montreal rookies Lane Hutson and Ivan Demidov. Other impactful rookies include Logan Stankoven (Dallas/Carolina), Zack Bolduc (St. Louis), Jackson Blake (Carolina), Mackie Samoskevich (Florida), and Mavrik Bourque (Dallas).
Can Winnipeg Overcome the Presidents` Trophy Curse?
The Winnipeg Jets, Presidents` Trophy winners, face the challenge of overcoming the “Presidents` Trophy curse,” where top regular-season teams often struggle in the playoffs. Only a few Presidents` Trophy winners have won the Stanley Cup.
The Jets, with a strong offense, power play, and top goalie Connor Hellebuyck, aim to break this trend. They face a St. Louis Blues team that has been strong since a coaching change.
Will the Kings Finally Beat Edmonton?
The Los Angeles Kings, after a strong season, face the Edmonton Oilers in the first round for the fourth straight year. The Kings have lost the previous three series.
If the Kings can overcome the Oilers, their strong defense and veteran offense could make them a force in the West.
Can McDavid and Draisaitl Finish the Story?
The Edmonton Oilers aim to return to the Stanley Cup Final after coming close last season. Injuries and inconsistent defense are challenges. They need their stars to lead and their goaltending to be solid.
The X Factor Team?
The Vegas Golden Knights, despite lineup changes, remain a strong contender, finishing high in both offense and defense. With key players like Jack Eichel and a solid defense, they could make another deep playoff run.
Who Will Win the Cup?
This year`s playoffs are wide open, with several teams having a legitimate shot at the Stanley Cup. The Avalanche, Panthers, Hurricanes, Golden Knights, Oilers, and Jets are among the top contenders.
Enjoy the excitement of the Stanley Cup playoffs!
