NHL Season Preview/Predictions
The NHL season is underway and in full effect. Opening night is in the books, and one could definitely say it didn’t disappoint. The Chicago Blackhawks traveled to Pittsburgh for what would be a very anticipated match.
The entire sports world was talking about one thing, Conor Bedard. Bedard, being the first pick in the draft, was facing off against a future Hall of Famer in Sidney Crosby. Despite losing every faceoff, the future is bright for the young star.
This year will be an interesting one for the Eastern Conference. There are the powerhouses like the Canes and Bruins, but there have been some teams trying to prove something through the preseason and first two games.
The Tampa Bay Lighting had an impressive opening night. With only a 52% chance to make the playoffs, they are looking to make a strong case for the 2023-24 season. The Lighting will have a chance to make a statement this year in the Atlantic Division.
Moving to the Metropolitan Division, the Carolina Hurricanes are looking to stay on top of the division and the favorites in the odds for making the playoffs and winning the Stanley Cup.
The Canes are looking to come on top this year. Facing the New Jersey Devils will be tough for them as they are looking to have another great season. Even though the Devils got eliminated by them last season, they are hunting for a cup this year.
Moving to the Western Conference, you have the reigning Stanley Cup Champs in the Las Vegas Golden Knights. They started their season opener against the Kraken very strongly, but they will not be repeating this year. You have heavy contenders in the West. You have the Oilers, Stars, and Avalanche who are all looking strong.
The Oilers with the highest percentage to win the Stanley Cup are looking to have a strong season. Even though they came short to the Golden Knights they still have the best power play offense converting over 32.4% throughout the season, leading the NHL.
Stuart Skinner, the starting goalie for the Oilers is looking forward to having a strong second year. The Oilers relied on the rookie goalie to come through and that’s what he did, being the first rookie since 2016-17 Penguins goalie Matt Murray, to set a record for 29 wins.
For the 2023-24 season, it looks like the Stanley Cup Finals percentage wise will turn out to be the Oilers and Canes, with Oilers winning in six.
