Last updated: September 29, 2026, 2:24 PM ET
Stanley Cup Favorites
The Carolina Hurricanes, Florida Panthers, and Colorado Avalanche are favored to win the 2027 Stanley Cup, though sportsbooks are not in consensus on which team leads the odds. ESPN’s expert picks for the season include division winners and major individual hardware, while a comprehensive season preview ranks all 32 teams and identifies top challengers to Carolina’s repeat bid. Meanwhile, CBS Sports predictions call their shots for the playoffs and champion, offering a full slate of award forecasts.
Team & Player News
Penguins general manager Kyle Dubas said he is seeking more certainty from Evgeni Malkin about his future, emphasizing he’s “not doing this day-to-day, year-to-year” and wants a clearer timeline. The Hurricanes remain hopeful of reaching a deal with holdout defenseman Alexander Nikishin, who is under contract in the KHL. In Minnesota, top-pair defenseman Brock Faber underwent surgery for a fractured skull and is out indefinitely, a significant blow to the Wild’s blue line. The Hurricanes received their Stanley Cup rings at a team function on Sunday, with the rings featuring a hidden “Storm Surge” detail that pays homage to their iconic celebration.
Trade Analysis
On the eve of opening night, the Maple Leafs and Blue Jackets swapped high-powered wings, with Toronto acquiring Kirill Marchenko for Matthew Knies. Our analysis grades the deal for both clubs, assessing the fit and long-term value of each player.
Around the League
Seven Arizona State hockey players disputed the university’s review of a teammate’s collapse, alleging the school’s findings were inaccurate. As the puck drops on the 2026-27 season, key storylines include the Tkachuk brothers in Florida and Connor McDavid’s future, along with Jack Hughes’s role in New Jersey. A betting guide offers one futures bet for every NHL team, covering Stanley Cup winner, division winners, and player awards like the Hart Trophy.