As the NHL season comes to a close, hockey fans are eagerly anticipating the start of the 2026 playoffs, with the ultimate goal of hoisting the iconic Stanley Cup. With a talented crop of teams vying for the championship, predicting the winner is a daunting task, but experts and analysts have weighed in with their picks. This comprehensive preview breaks down the contenders, dark horses, and Cinderella stories, providing a detailed bracket and predictions for each series. From the Eastern Conference powerhouse teams to the Western Conference underdogs, find out which team will ultimately reign supreme and be crowned the 2026 Stanley Cup champions.
Who will win Stanley Cup? 2026 NHL playoff predictions, bracket and picks USA Today
