The article provides 10 bold predictions for the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs, including the Dallas Stars winning the Stanley Cup, Wyatt Johnston being a surprise MVP, and various teams facing challenges such as goaltending issues and playoff disappointments.
The 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs are kicking off this Saturday. Let’s dive into 10 bold predictions for the excitement ahead.
First up, the Dallas Stars are taking home the Stanley Cup. They’ve got it all: a deep roster, top-notch offense, and a star defenseman in Miro Heiskanen. Plus, their goalie, Jake Oettinger, is on fire with a .941 save percentage in April. He’s a game-changer.
Now, for a surprise MVP – Wyatt Johnston from the Stars. If they clinch the Cup, expect him to snag the Conn Smythe. This second-year forward has been on a tear, with 23 goals and 44 points since the start of January. Watch him shine this postseason.
The Toronto Maple Leafs, though? Expect more heartbreak. They’ve been stuck in a playoff rut, winning just one series in seven years. And with Boston up first, things look grim. The Bruins have dominated them this season, and Toronto’s goaltending just doesn’t stack up.
Over in Edmonton, the Oilers have a goalie problem too. Despite having offensive powerhouses like McDavid and Draisaitl, their lack of a top goalie is a big red flag. Stuart Skinner isn’t the answer they need for a championship run.
Don’t sleep on the Tampa Bay Lightning, though. They’re lurking as a wild card but have the talent for a deep run. With a top-five offense and clutch goalie Vasilevskiy, they’re hitting their stride at the perfect time.
As for the Presidents’ Trophy curse? It continues. The last team to win it and the Stanley Cup was the 2012-13 Blackhawks. The New York Rangers, despite their talent, have just enough flaws to fall short.
Jake Guentzel is proving his worth with the Hurricanes, far from Crosby’s shadow. With eight goals and 25 points in his first 17 games in Carolina, he’s showing he’s a playoff powerhouse in his own right.
The New York Islanders won’t be easy to knock out. They’re entering the playoffs hot, backed by goalies Sorokin and Varlamov. This duo could turn any series on its head, covering for the team’s weaknesses.
But the Vancouver Canucks? They’re in for a letdown. Despite winning the Pacific Division, their success feels a bit like smoke and mirrors. High shooting and save percentages have masked their depth issues, which could be their downfall in the playoffs.
Lastly, Colorado’s goaltending woes will be their undoing. Even with the addition of Casey Mittelstadt, their goalies remain a weak link. Facing the Jets and MVP candidate Hellebuyck in round one? That’s a recipe for an upset.
So, there you have it. Ten bold takes on what’s shaping up to be an unforgettable postseason. Let the games begin!
