As the 2025-26 NHL regular season comes to a close, hockey fans are eagerly anticipating the start of the highly anticipated Stanley Cup playoffs. To get a glimpse into what's in store, top NHL players, coaches, and general managers recently shared their predictions for the playoff bracket. ESPN has gathered the collective wisdom of these hockey insiders, who foresee a fresh face claiming the coveted championship trophy. With a mix of established powerhouses and rising contenders, the 2026 Stanley Cup playoffs promise to be an exciting and unpredictable ride. Will a new team rise to the top, or will a familiar name repeat as champion?
NHL player, coach, GM predict the 2026 Stanley Cup playoffs ESPNWith plenty of fresh blood, NHL will have new Stanley Cup champion CBCNHL playoff watch: What's on the line in Wednesday's games ESPN
