The 2025-26 NHL season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, with several teams vying for the Stanley Cup and a host of individual players looking to make their mark. As the puck drops, all eyes are on whether the Dallas Stars can finally hoist the Cup and if Connor McDavid will add another MVP trophy to his already impressive collection.
Pre-season predictions are always a mixed bag, but early analysis suggests a compelling narrative is about to unfold. Let’s dive into the key storylines, team outlooks, and player projections that will define the upcoming year.
Stanley Cup Contenders
Dallas Stars: A Team on the Rise
The Dallas Stars have been building towards this moment for several years. With a strong core of veterans and emerging young talent, they possess the perfect blend of experience and skill. Their offensive firepower, led by players like Jason Robertson and Roope Hintz, is complemented by a solid defensive structure and reliable goaltending.
One of the biggest factors in the Stars’ favor is their depth. They can roll four lines that can contribute offensively, making them a difficult matchup for any opponent. Their defensive pairings are also among the league’s best, capable of shutting down even the most potent attacks. According to some analysts, their window to win is now fully open. The pressure is on to deliver.
Edmonton Oilers: McDavid’s Quest for Glory
It’s impossible to talk about the NHL without mentioning Connor McDavid and the Edmonton Oilers. McDavid is arguably the best player in the world, and his electrifying performances are a must-see. However, the Oilers’ success hinges on more than just McDavid’s brilliance. They need consistent contributions from their supporting cast and improved defensive play to contend for the Stanley Cup.
The Oilers have made some key additions in the offseason, bolstering their defensive depth and adding more scoring punch. The question is whether these changes will be enough to elevate them to the next level. The clock is ticking for McDavid, who is entering his prime and eager to win a championship. Some reports suggest his contract extension might be delayed, adding another layer of intrigue to the season. Contract talks will be a major storyline to watch.
Vegas Golden Knights: Defending Their Crown
The Vegas Golden Knights are always a threat. After a strong showing last year, they’ll be looking to prove their mettle once again. Their experience and winning culture make them a formidable opponent, and they have the depth and talent to make another deep playoff run. However, repeating as champions is never easy, and they’ll face stiff competition from other top teams in the league.
The Golden Knights’ success will depend on their ability to stay healthy and maintain their defensive discipline. They have a strong goaltending tandem and a group of skilled forwards who can score in bunches. If they can avoid major injuries and continue to play with the same intensity and focus, they’ll be a tough out for any team.
Individual Awards: The Race for MVP
Connor McDavid: The Favorite Once Again
Connor McDavid is the perennial favorite for the Hart Trophy, awarded to the league’s most valuable player. His incredible speed, skill, and vision make him a dominant force on the ice. If he stays healthy and continues to produce at his usual rate, he’ll be tough to beat for the MVP award.
McDavid’s impact on the game is undeniable. He elevates the play of his teammates and consistently delivers highlight-reel performances. However, his MVP candidacy will also depend on the Oilers’ success. If they can make a deep playoff run, it will only strengthen his case for the award.
Nathan MacKinnon: A Rising Star
Nathan MacKinnon is another player to watch in the MVP race. The Colorado Avalanche center is one of the most dynamic and explosive players in the league. His combination of speed, skill, and physicality makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses.
MacKinnon has been consistently improving his game over the past few years, and he’s now considered one of the top players in the NHL. If he can stay healthy and continue to produce at a high level, he’ll be a serious contender for the Hart Trophy. His performance will be crucial to the Avalanche’s success.
Other Contenders
Several other players could also be in the mix for the MVP award. Leon Draisaitl, McDavid’s teammate in Edmonton, is a perennial contender. Auston Matthews of the Toronto Maple Leafs is one of the league’s top goal-scorers. And Nikita Kucherov of the Tampa Bay Lightning is a dynamic playmaker who can take over games.
The MVP race is always one of the most exciting storylines of the NHL season, and this year promises to be no different. With so many talented players vying for the award, it will be fascinating to see who emerges as the frontrunner.
Key Storylines to Watch
The Florida Panthers’ Three-Peat Bid
Can the Florida Panthers achieve the rare feat of winning three consecutive Stanley Cups? It’s a tall order, but they have the talent and experience to make it happen. Their success will depend on their ability to stay healthy and maintain their focus throughout the long season.
The Panthers have a strong core of players, led by Aleksander Barkov and Jonathan Huberdeau. Their defensive structure is solid, and their goaltending is reliable. However, they’ll face stiff competition from other top teams in the league, all hungry to dethrone them.
The Return to the Winter Olympics
The 2026 Winter Olympics will feature NHL players for the first time in several years. This is a major boost for the sport, as it will showcase the world’s best talent on the international stage. The tournament will be a highlight of the hockey calendar, and fans around the world will be eagerly anticipating the competition.
The return to the Olympics will also have an impact on the NHL season. The league will take a break to allow players to participate in the tournament, which could affect team momentum and player fatigue. It will be interesting to see how teams adjust to this break and how it impacts their performance down the stretch.
Anze Kopitar’s Retirement
Los Angeles Kings legend Anze Kopitar is expected to retire after the 2025-26 season. Kopitar has been a mainstay in Los Angeles for nearly two decades, leading the Kings to two Stanley Cup championships. His retirement will mark the end of an era for the franchise.
Kopitar’s impact on the Kings and the NHL as a whole cannot be overstated. He is a skilled player and a respected leader, and his presence will be missed. As he enters his final season, he’ll be looking to make one last run at the Stanley Cup and cement his legacy as one of the greatest players in Kings history.
A glimpse into the future? AI imagines the intensity of the 2025-26 NHL season, hinting at potential Stanley Cup champions and MVP contenders, reflecting on NHL 2025-26 season predictions: Stars as Stanley Cup champs? Connor McDavid as MVP?.
Team-by-Team Outlook
Edmonton Oilers
The Oilers’ success hinges heavily on Connor McDavid’s performance and the contributions of Leon Draisaitl. However, their defensive play needs significant improvement if they want to be considered true contenders. Their early season projections suggest a need for stronger defensive strategies. Oilers defense will be key.
The Oilers have also unveiled new alternate jerseys for the 2025-26 season, generating buzz among fans. The team hopes the new look will inspire them to greater heights as they chase their first Stanley Cup since the dynasty years.
Vegas Golden Knights
The Golden Knights are coming off a strong season and are looking to repeat as champions. Their winning culture and experienced roster make them a formidable opponent. However, they’ll need to stay healthy and maintain their defensive discipline to make another deep playoff run.
The team’s preview suggests a continued focus on strong goaltending and opportunistic scoring. If they can maintain their intensity and focus, they’ll be a tough out for any team in the league.
Dallas Stars
The Stars are considered a team on the rise, with a strong core of veterans and emerging young talent. Their offensive firepower and solid defensive structure make them a legitimate Stanley Cup contender. Their depth and versatility will be key to their success.
The team’s management has made several key additions in the offseason, bolstering their roster and adding more scoring punch. The pressure is on for the Stars to deliver and make a deep playoff run.
Other Teams to Watch
Several other teams could also make some noise in the 2025-26 season. The Toronto Maple Leafs, with Auston Matthews leading the way, are always a threat to score goals. The Tampa Bay Lightning, led by Nikita Kucherov, are a dynamic team with the potential to make a deep playoff run. And the Colorado Avalanche, with Nathan MacKinnon at the helm, are a young and exciting team with a bright future.
The NHL is a league of parity, and any team can surprise. It will be fascinating to see which teams emerge as contenders and which players rise to the top.
Key Takeaways
- The Dallas Stars are emerging as a top contender for the Stanley Cup.
- Connor McDavid remains the frontrunner for the Hart Trophy.
- The Florida Panthers are aiming for a historic three-peat.
- NHL players will return to the Winter Olympics in 2026.
- Anze Kopitar is expected to retire after the season.
FAQ
Who is the favorite to win the Stanley Cup in 2026?
The Dallas Stars and Edmonton Oilers are among the top favorites, but the Vegas Golden Knights and other contenders also have a strong chance.
Who is the favorite to win the Hart Trophy in 2026?
Connor McDavid is the perennial favorite, but Nathan MacKinnon and other top players could also be in the mix.
When will NHL players return to the Winter Olympics?
NHL players are scheduled to participate in the 2026 Winter Olympics.
When is Anze Kopitar expected to retire?
Anze Kopitar is expected to retire after the 2025-26 NHL season.
What are some key storylines to watch in the 2025-26 season?
The Florida Panthers’ three-peat bid, the return to the Winter Olympics, and Connor McDavid’s pursuit of the Stanley Cup are all key storylines to follow.
Which teams are expected to perform well in the 2025-26 season?
The Edmonton Oilers, Vegas Golden Knights, Dallas Stars, and Toronto Maple Leafs are among the teams expected to have strong seasons.
The 2025-26 NHL season promises to be filled with excitement, drama, and unforgettable moments. Whether the Dallas Stars can capture the Stanley Cup or Connor McDavid can add another MVP trophy to his collection remains to be seen. One thing is certain: it will be a season worth watching.
Stay tuned for more updates, analysis, and predictions as the season progresses. Be sure to follow your favorite teams and players and join the conversation on social media. The NHL season is a journey, and we’re all in it together. For a guide to the upcoming season, catch up here.
