As the 2024-25 NHL season comes to a close, hockey fans are eagerly anticipating the upcoming campaign and the quest for the coveted Stanley Cup. The Athletic, in collaboration with The New York Times, has released its projected 2025-26 NHL standings, providing a glimpse into the potential playoff chances for each team. With the offseason just beginning, this analysis offers a crucial look at which clubs are poised to make a deep playoff run and which teams may be struggling to stay afloat. From the defending champions to surprise contenders, this report breaks down the expected pecking order and identifies the most likely Stanley Cup contenders.
NHL 2025-26 Stanley Cup playoff chances and projected standings - The Athletic The New York Times
