2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs: Round 1 Predictions
The 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs have arrived. Each series brings its own storyline, and every edge matters in a tight postseason race. Here’s a breakdown of every Round 1 matchup and how they could unfold:
Avalanche vs. Stars
The Stars looked like a legit contender all year and arguably have the most complete team. But they head into the playoffs without Miro Heiskanen, there best defenseman who’s been out for a while, and recently lost star forward Jason Robertson to a knee injury. To make the situation worse they ended the season on a seven game skid leaving real concern. One key storyline: Stars forward Mikko Rantanen plays his former team after being traded to Dallas from Carolina at the trade deadline. The Avalanche acquired Martin Necas a speedy star player from Carolina in the trade that sent Rantanen originally to Carolina. The Avalanche also added Brock Nelson and Charlie Coyle at the trade deadline to boost their depth. With Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar leading the way, Colorado has the firepower and experience to outlast Dallas.
Pick: Avalanche in 7
Jets vs. Blues
Winnipeg enters as one of the most well-rounded teams in the league. Their depth, structure, and forward group are all playoff-ready — but everything hinges on Connor Hellebuyck. If Hellebuyck plays to the level he should, the Jets should have no problem beating the Blues. St. Louis wont be any easy out, but Winnipeg has the more complete team.
Pick: Jets in 6
Kings vs. Oilers
The Kings are hungry to finally get past Edmonton after back-to-back playoff exits at their hands. This year, they have the roster to do it — a disciplined, deep team led by Anze Kopitar and boosted by the scoring of Adrian Kempe and Kevin Fiala. The Oilers still have Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, but the loss of shut down defensemen Mattias Ekholm and goaltending concerns leave them exposed in a long series.
Pick: Kings in 6
Golden Knights vs. Wild
Vegas still looks like a playoff-ready group, with Jack Eichel having his best season yet. Their experience and depth should prove too much for a gritty but overmatched Minnesota squad. The Wild haven’t matched up well with Vegas all year, and that trend is likely to continue.
Pick: Golden Knights in 6
Maple Leafs vs. Senators
The Battle of Ontario returns with playoff stakes for the first time in years. Ottawa’s young core, led by Brady Tkachuk, will bring energy and physicality. But Toronto has the edge in talent, depth, and playoff experience. The Senators will make it competitive, but the Leafs are the more complete team.
Pick: Maple Leafs in 6
Panthers vs. Lightning
Florida enters the playoffs as the defending champions and the are finally healthy. Getting Matthew Tkachuk back in the lineup is massive, and the addition of Brad Marchand at the deadline gives them a gritty, experienced presence. Tampa Bay’s postseason pedigree and very deep team that looks to have another run in them makes this a very dangerous matchup, but Florida has the firepower, physicality and depth to survive.
Pick: Panthers in 7
Capitals vs. Canadiens
Montreal has promise, but they’re still too young to go toe-to-toe with a playoff-tested group like Washington. The Capitals are well-coached under Spencer Carbery and are lead by the greatest goal scorer of all time, Alex Ovechkin. The Capitals also have a well balanced gritty roster who play very well together.
Pick: Capitals in 5
Hurricanes vs. Devils
The Devils enter the postseason without their best player, Jack Hughes, and that’s a massive hurdle to overcome. Carolina’s structure, two-way depth, and defensive stability make them one of the toughest outs in the playoffs. Without Hughes, New Jersey will struggle to generate enough offense.
Pick: Hurricanes in 6