The Florida Panthers, Carolina Hurricanes, Dallas Stars, and Edmonton Oilers are the last teams standing. Each squad has its own strengths, weaknesses, and a burning desire to hoist the Cup. Let’s break it down.

Eastern Conference Final: Florida Panthers vs. Carolina Hurricanes

Florida Panthers (-126)

The reigning Stanley Cup champions are proving why they’re the team to beat. After clawing their way back from a 0-2 deficit against Toronto, they dominated Game 7 to advance.

• X-Factor: Brad Marchand—yes, the former Bruins captain—has been electric, leading the team in points this postseason.
• Goaltending: Sergei Bobrovsky is playing like a brick wall, boasting a .956 save percentage on unblocked shots.
• Why They’ll Win: Depth, experience, and a killer instinct in clutch moments.

Carolina Hurricanes (+105)

The Canes have been defensive juggernauts, allowing the fewest goals per game in the playoffs.

• X-Factor: Frederik Andersen has been lights-out in net, and their penalty kill is running at a 93.3% success rate.
• Why They’ll Win: If they can neutralize Florida’s offensive firepower, they have a real shot at revenge for their 2023 sweep at the hands of the Panthers.

Western Conference Final: Dallas Stars vs. Edmonton Oilers

Dallas Stars (+110)

Dallas is back in the Western Conference Final for the third straight year, proving they’re built for deep playoff runs.

• X-Factor: Mikko Rantanen, who leads all playoff scorers with 19 points, has been a force.
• Goaltending: Jake Oettinger gives them a solid edge in net.
• Why They’ll Win: They have the depth and defensive structure to slow down Edmonton’s high-powered offense.

Edmonton Oilers (-120)

The Oilers are Canada’s last hope for a Stanley Cup, and they’re hungry to avenge last year’s loss to Florida.

• X-Factor: Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl have combined for 33 points—an absurd level of production.
• Why They’ll Win: If their defense holds up, their offensive firepower is unmatched.

My Picks for the Stanley Cup Final

This is tough, but I’m rolling with Florida vs. Edmonton for the ultimate showdown.

• Florida has the experience, depth, and goaltending to take down Carolina.
• Edmonton is playing with a chip on their shoulder and has the offensive firepower to outlast Dallas.

If this matchup happens, expect fireworks. McDavid vs. Marchand? Bobrovsky vs. Draisaitl? It’s going to be must-watch hockey.

Who do you think will make it to the Stanley Cup Final? Let’s hear your predictions! 🏒🔥