Well, well, well, what do we have here?
We asked. You voted. The results are in.
Fan picks for Stanley Cup winner, awards and more
On @TheAthleticNHL ⤵️https://t.co/kCqdjI93FW
— Jesse Granger (@JesseGranger_) February 8, 2025
GO DEEPER
NHL fan predictions: Your picks for Stanley Cup winner, awards and more
It’s another batch of predictions, but this time, it’s not coming from analysts or journalists. It’s from you, the fans. Or so I’m assuming, based on the recent survey conducted by The Athletic. Over 2,500 readers participated, including you, and now the results are in. Let’s see how your picks stack up against the expert analysis.
Bonus Five: Fan Survey Predictions You Got Wrong
1. The Capitals Missed Out: The Washington Capitals have been a strong contender throughout the season, consistently ranking in the top five in most expert predictions. However, they were surprisingly ranked seventh by fans for the Stanley Cup. Fans overlooked the Capitals’ potential, despite their impressive performance.
2. Hart Trophy Misread: Fans predicted Leon Draisaitl or Nathan MacKinnon to win the Hart Trophy, believing it would be a narrow win. In reality, the award may go to goaltender Connor Hellebuyck, who has been leading the voting block for defensive excellence. The forward category is expected to be a tight race between Draisaitl, MacKinnon, and Connor McDavid.
3. Missed the Calder Prediction: Lane Hutson, the best rookie in the league, wasn’t a top pick among fans. Only 20.6% of survey respondents guessed him as the Calder Trophy winner. Despite his outstanding play, Hutson’s name wasn’t among the top choices for best rookie.
4. Incorrect Last Place Prediction: Chicago Blackhawks led the fan votes for last place, but the current standings show the San Jose Sharks are the more likely candidate for the bottom spot. Fans underestimated the Sharks’ poor performance, giving the Hawks a higher chance at the top lottery odds.
5. Ignored the Panthers: Just 2.7% of the survey participants picked the Florida Panthers as the Stanley Cup champions. However, the Panthers are in a good position, with a strong division and minimal competition. Fans failed to acknowledge their winnable season, potentially underestimating their playoff chances.
Road to the Cup
Here’s a closer look at the teams with the best chances of winning the Stanley Cup:
5. Florida Panthers: The Panthers recently gained the Atlantic Division lead, winning five of their last six games. Their consistent play makes them a strong contender.
4. Dallas Stars: Jamie Benn’s impressive performance adds to the Stars’ growing confidence. Their recent eight-goal victory against the Sharks was a testament to their team chemistry.
Jamie Benn joins the Stars scoring party! 🥳 pic.twitter.com/amvjTpBCpg
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) February 9, 2025
3. Washington Capitals: Despite an shootout loss to Utah, the Capitals remain a formidable team. Alex Ovechkin’s importance in the shootout highlights the depth and skill of their roster.
2. Edmonton Oilers: Leon Draisaitl’s goal-scoring prowess makes him a front-runner for at least 50 goals this season. The Oilers are a solid favorite with consistent play and strong team cohesion.
1. Winnipeg Jets: The Jets’ momentum has been impressive, winning eight straight games including matchups against strong opponents like the Avalanche, Hurricanes, and Capitals. Their current form makes them top contenders.
Not Ranked: Detroit Red Wings: After a seven-game win streak, the Red Wings are in the playoff hunt. While their impressive climb is noteworthy, their long-term performance and stability remain uncertain.
The Bottom Five
Here are the teams headed toward last place, setting up top lottery odds:
5. Montreal Canadiens: The Canadiens’ season, marked by promising moments, is showing signs of insufficiency. The team’s performance leaves them in a precarious position.
4. Philadelphia Flyers: Recent comments from traded players suggest they feel respected, but the Flyers’ current struggle persists. Their low ranks are indicative of their tough season.
3. Nashville Predators: Despite a win against the Sabres, the Predators are still struggling. Their narrowly clinched victory highlights their ongoing challenges.
2. Chicago Blackhawks: Connor Bedard’s recent national attention has brought criticism, including some valid points. The Blackhawks’ overall performance remains inconsistent.
1. San Jose Sharks: The Sharks’ seven-game road trip without home ice will test their resolve. Their loss to the Stars and overall performance place them at the bottom.
Not Ranked: Buffalo Sabres: The Sabres’ recent win streak has lifted them out of the bottom five for the first time since December. However, whether this is a sign of hope or a false dawn is up for debate. Fans and experts alike are watching closely.
For Sabres fans, the question remains: Is this recent win streak a good sign? The team has four consecutive wins leading into the break, but determining whether it’s a sign of improvement or a temporary hot streak is challenging.
The Buffalo Sabres as soon as they’re 47 points out of the playoffs race pic.twitter.com/bNW5GH6QKD
— sba (@essbeeay) February 2, 2025
Engage with your fellow fans and share your thoughts. The Sabres’ future remains uncertain, and fan opinions can add valuable insight.
(Photo of Panthers fans: Carmen Mandato / Getty Images)
We’d love to hear your thoughts. Share your predictions and opinions in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe for more expert analysis and NBA updates!