2025-26 NHL Playoffs: First Round Predictions

Colorado Avalanche vs Los Angeles Kings

Prediction: Avalanche in 5

Series MVP: Nathan Mackinnon

Colorado has run the table all season long, with a goal share >60% at 5v5. LA, on the other hand only won 22 games in regulation. Although President’s trophy winning teams don’t often win the cup, I think LA wins one lucky game, but the Avs will waltz to victory.

Dallas Stars vs Minnesota Wild

Prediction: Dallas in 7

Series MVP: Miro Heiskanen

An unfair first round match up for both teams. Minnesota became a legitimate contender after the acquisition of Quinn Hughes, and they have a slight edge in goaltending, but I think they ultimately bow out in 7 games after a long hard battle with the veteran Stars.

Vegas Golden Knights vs Utah Mammoth

Prediction: Utah in 5

Series MVP: Dylan Guenther

I think Utah is a better team than Vegas. Sure, the Knights have thrived under new coach John Tortorella, but I think Utah has too much offensive speed and firepower and will take advantage of Vegas’ weak goaltending. I have a feeling Dylan Guenther is going to have a huge series.

Edmonton Oilers vs Anaheim Ducks

Prediction: Edmonton in 6

Series MVP: Leon Draisaitl

On paper, the experienced Oilers should have no problem with Anaheim, especially with a reported healthy Leon Draisaitl. However, Anaheim has a decisive edge in physicality and goaltending that I think will extend this series a bit further than the Oilers would like.

Buffalo Sabres vs Boston Bruins

Prediction: Buffalo in 6

Series MVP: Alex Tuch

Though Boston has much more team playoff experience than Buffalo, I believe the Sabres have more depth and talent across their lineup. These will be tight, low-scoring games, but Buffalo will win the special teams battle and move on to the second round.

Tampa Bay Lightning vs Montreal Canadiens

Prediction: Montreal in 7

Series MVP: Juraj Slafkovsky

Major upset incoming. Despite fantastic talent and tons of experience, Tampa has been upset in the first round 3 years straight. I think this trend continues as Tampa’s cup window officially closes. Montreal is young, fast, heavy, talented and well coached. This will be an all out war, and I give the Habs the slight edge in Game 7.

Carolina Hurricanes vs Ottawa Senators

Prediction: Carolina in 5

Series MVP: Sebastian Aho

Despite a strong end to the season, I don’t think Ottawa has what it takes to beat the Hurricanes. Carolina is known for it’s lack of playoff success, but they always make it past the first round. Aho is at the top of his game, and their team structure is near perfect. Ottawa has great talent, but is too inconsistent to have a chance over a 7-game series.

Pittsburgh Penguins vs Philadelphia Flyers

Prediction: Philly in 6

Series MVP: Dan Vladar

I think this will be the most entertaining series of the first round. The battle of Pennsylvania is a great rivalry, with physicality and passion on full display. Though Pittsburgh has the famous talent, I ultimately think the Flyers are healthier and have better goaltending.