As the 2026-27 NHL season approaches, hockey fans are eagerly anticipating which teams will make a deep playoff run and potentially hoist the Stanley Cup. In a recent analysis by The Hockey Writers, the league's contenders have been divided into three distinct tiers, each with its own set of expectations and storylines. At the top of the heap are the true championship contenders, led by perennial powerhouses like the Tampa Bay Lightning and Colorado Avalanche, who have the talent, depth, and experience to make a long postseason run. In the middle tier, teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs and Vegas Golden Knights are expected to be in the mix, but may face stiffer competition from within their own divisions. And at the bottom, several teams are just hoping to stay afloat and avoid a lengthy rebuild, including the struggling Montreal Canadiens and Arizona Coyotes. With the regular season set to tip off soon, NHL fans can expect a thrilling ride filled with upsets, comebacks, and ultimately, a champion will be crowned.

2026-27 Stanley Cup Contender Tiers: From Championship Hopes to Just Happy to Be Here  The Hockey Writers