ESPN NHL writer Greg Wyshynski projects the Florida Panthers to repeat as Stanley Cup champions, overcoming the Colorado Avalanche in the final. The Panthers, who have won three conference titles and two Cups in four seasons, are viewed as the deepest and most self-assured team in hockey. Wyshynski highlights Brady Tkachuk's move to Florida as a key fit within their humble, machine-like culture.

In the Atlantic Division, the Tampa Bay Lightning are projected near the top thanks to the return of John Carlson and the dominance of Nikita Kucherov and Andrei Vasilevskiy. However, a first-round exit would raise questions about coach Jon Cooper's tenure. The Montreal Canadiens are identified as a legitimate Cup threat, with GM Kent Hughes building around Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield, though they may be a year away from breaking through. The Boston Bruins and Toronto Maple Leafs round out the division's playoff picture.

The Metropolitan and other divisions feature competitive races, with the New York Rangers and Carolina Hurricanes among the favorites. Wyshynski concludes with a division-by-division breakdown of projected standings, wishing all 32 teams luck for the upcoming season.