As the 2025-26 NHL season heats up, hockey fans are eagerly awaiting the start of the playoffs. But before the puck drops, The Athletic and The New York Times have released their latest projections, giving us a glimpse into which teams are likely to make a deep run in the postseason. According to their analysis, several familiar powerhouses are poised to contend for the Stanley Cup, while a few surprise teams are also vying for a spot in the playoffs. From the Boston Bruins' strong offense to the Toronto Maple Leafs' revamped defense, we take a look at the projected standings and find out which teams have the best chance of hoisting Lord Stanley's trophy. Will the reigning champion Colorado Avalanche repeat, or will a new challenger emerge to claim the title?
NHL 2025-26 Stanley Cup playoff chances and projected standings - The Athletic The New York Times
