The 2022 NHL playoffs are starting this Saturday, with 16 teams competing for the Stanley Cup. The journey to become champion will be challenging but rewarding.
Who will win? Several strong teams are in the playoffs, making it unpredictable. NHL experts are sharing their predictions for the Stanley Cup winner.
SportsLine lists the favorites as Colorado Avalanche, Florida Panthers, Dallas Stars, and Vegas Golden Knights. Will a favorite win, or could an underdog like the St. Louis Blues or Montreal Canadiens surprise everyone?
Over the next few months, top hockey players will compete for the Stanley Cup. Our experts are making early predictions for the champion.
Stanley Cup Picks
Nivison: Nivison predicts the Avalanche will win the Western Conference after defeating the Stars. He believes Colorado`s improved center depth with Brock Nelson and Charlie Coyle is key. In the East, he expects the Lightning to dominate and win their conference title, thanks to a strong Andrei Vasilevskiy.
This sets up a Stanley Cup Final rematch between the Avalanche and Lightning. While Tampa Bay might last longer this time, Nivison still predicts the Avalanche will win in 7 games due to their speed and skill. Nivison`s Pick: Avalanche to defeat Lightning 4-3.
Bengel: Bengel notes that despite losing Steven Stamkos, the Lightning acquired Jake Guentzel. Guentzel`s addition, along with players like Nikita Kucherov and Brayden Point, makes Tampa Bay`s offense very strong.
The Lightning led the NHL in goals per game and have a top power play. Kucherov is an elite playmaker. Bengel highlights Andrei Vasilevskiy`s playoff experience as a major advantage. Vasilevskiy has a history of strong performances in Stanley Cup runs.
After early playoff exits in recent years, the Lightning added Guentzel and Ryan McDonagh. Bengel believes their strong offense, defense led by Victor Hedman, and Vasilevskiy in goal make them Stanley Cup contenders. Bengel`s Pick: Lightning to defeat Golden Knights 4-3.
