ESPN's panel of 22 hockey experts has made their predictions for the 2026 Stanley Cup conference finals, with overwhelming consensus emerging for both matchups. The Eastern Conference final features the Carolina Hurricanes against the Montreal Canadiens, while the Western Conference pits the Colorado Avalanche against the Vegas Golden Knights.

Twenty of 22 experts selected the Hurricanes to defeat the Canadiens, with most predicting a five or six-game series. Only Tim Kavanagh and Vince Masi forecasted a Canadiens victory, though they differed on the length. The Hurricanes' strong regular season and playoff experience appears to give them the edge in expert eyes.

Similarly, 20 of 22 picks favor the Avalanche over the Golden Knights, with predictions ranging from five to seven games. Steve Levy and Tim Kavanagh were the lone voices backing Vegas. The Avalanche's veteran roster and home-ice advantage seem to sway the majority opinion.

These consensus predictions reflect how both favored teams dominated their earlier playoff rounds. The Carolina Hurricanes and Colorado Avalanche now carry the weight of expectation as they chase the Stanley Cup Final berth.