As the NHL gears up for the 2024-25 season, predictions are rolling in for where each team will land in the final NHL standings. With key offseason moves, emerging stars, and new coaching strategies, experts are making their picks for Stanley Cup favorites, division winners, and award contenders. Here’s a look at how the season could shake out.
Stanley Cup Favorites for 2024-25
Several teams are being touted as top contenders for the Stanley Cup. The Colorado Avalanche and Carolina Hurricanes are seen as early favorites due to their deep rosters, high-end talent, and playoff experience. The Vegas Golden Knights, fresh off their 2023 championship, remain strong candidates to defend their title. Meanwhile, the Edmonton Oilers, led by superstars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, are expected to be in the mix once again.
Division Winners and Playoff Predictions
In the Eastern Conference, the Boston Bruins are predicted to remain a powerhouse, with the Toronto Maple Leafs close behind. The Tampa Bay Lightning and New Jersey Devils are also expected to compete for division titles. In the Western Conference, the Dallas Stars and Colorado Avalanche are leading picks for the top spots in their divisions, with the Los Angeles Kings and Seattle Kraken projected as potential challengers.
Award Finalists for the 2024-25 Season
As for individual awards, Connor McDavid remains the frontrunner for the Hart Trophy, given his unmatched skill and consistency. The Norris Trophy for the league’s best defenseman could go to Cale Makar of the Avalanche or Adam Fox of the Rangers, both of whom have been stellar in recent seasons. The Vezina Trophy for the top goaltender is expected to be a race between Igor Shesterkin of the Rangers and Andrei Vasilevskiy of the Lightning.
Which Teams Could Surprise?
Dark horse teams like the Buffalo Sabres and the Ottawa Senators have made significant improvements and could make unexpected playoff runs. The Detroit Red Wings are also being viewed as a team that could exceed expectations and push for a playoff spot in the tough Atlantic Division.
Looking Ahead to the 2024-25 NHL Season
With so much talent spread across the league, this season promises to be one of the most competitive in recent memory. The race for the Stanley Cup will be fierce, with multiple teams capable of making deep playoff runs. As the NHL standings take shape, fans can expect a thrilling season full of surprises, upsets, and standout performances from the league’s biggest stars.