"Hockey fans, get ready for a thrilling start to the 2026 NHL playoffs. As the Western Conference contenders gear up for Round 1, The Hockey News is making some bold predictions. With a mix of seasoned powerhouses and dark horse candidates, this year's playoff picture is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable in recent memory. Expect an upset or two, as up-and-coming teams look to dethrone established favorites and make a deep postseason run. In this exclusive preview, The Hockey News breaks down the West's top contenders and identifies the one team that's poised to pull off a major shocker in Round 1."
NHL Playoff Predictions 2026: Which West Teams Win Round 1? Expect An Upset The Hockey News
