A hockey team is aiming to replicate the success of last year’s Stanley Cup champions, drawing inspiration from their back-to-back title-winning strategy. The defending champions, who secured their second consecutive victory in 2025, join an elite group of repeat winners since 2017. With opening night facing off against the reigning dynasty, the underdogs will need to adapt quickly to avoid falling into the same traps that have tripped other contenders. The matchup sets the tone for a season where experience and momentum could decide early dominance.

The Hurricanes are hoping to follow the same blueprint as the team they face on opening night. The Panthers repeated as Stanley Cup champs in 2025, becoming the third team since 2017 to do so after ...