The 2026-27 NHL season has begun following a short offseason and a faster-than-usual preseason. Notably, the league has implemented an 84-game regular season, offering fans more hockey action but also making the road to the Stanley Cup slightly tougher. The reigning champions, the Carolina Hurricanes, aim to defend their title amid fierce competition from strong teams both in the Eastern and Western Conferences. Experts have shared their predictions for the playoff lineup, highlighting potential surprises and key contenders, and have also made their picks for individual awards, including McDavid’s pursuit of his fourth Hart Trophy and the competition for Norris and Vezina awards, which remain highly competitive. The season promises plenty of excitement, and coverage is ongoing at CBS Sports. Their season preview and predictions are, of course, infallible.
In the East, most experts foresee familiar playoff teams returning, with the Florida Panthers and Washington Capitals expected to contend strongly. In the West, the Colorado Avalanche, Dallas Stars, and Vegas Golden Knights are predicted as top contenders, with the possibility of the Colorado Mammoth making a leap. Notably, the Columbus Blue Jackets are projected as a surprising team to watch for a playoff return, while the San Jose Sharks may finally break into the postseason after narrowly missing last year.
Looking ahead to the Stanley Cup Final, one scenario envisions the Utah Mammoth emerging victorious from the West, fueled by rising stars and veteran leadership. Meanwhile, the Florida Panthers are seen as potential champions, especially after bouncing back from last season’s injuries—thanks to their solid core and the addition of Brady Tkachuk. In the East, the Dallas Stars are poised to take a step forward and reach the finals, aiming to finally conquer their late-stage playoff struggles, while the Panthers are viewed as strong contenders to win their third Cup in four years, especially after a healthy offseason.
Award predictions favor Connor McDavid to continue his dominance, with rising stars like Macklin Celebrini also in the mix for MVP honors. Other key players such as Kirill Dahlin and Aleksander Barkov are also in the spotlight, promising another year of intense individual competition.
Fan Take: This season’s expanded schedule and heightened competition promise to bring NHL fans non-stop action and riveting storylines. It could mark a pivotal year in hockey’s growth, highlighting emerging talents and exciting playoff races that will keep fans on the edge of their seats.
Source: www.cbssports.com
