NHL Playoff Predictions

The NHL Playoffs are in full swing and only 8 teams remain in the quest for the Stanley Cup, but who will reign supreme? Here are a few predictions on who has the best chance to raise the 2018 Stanley Cup when it’s all said and done.

Predators vs Jets

Nashville Predators adidas NHL Geno Flex Cap, Winnipeg Jets adidas NHL Geno Flex Cap

Out of all the teams remaining, the biggest threat may just be last year’s runner up, the Nashville Predators. The Predators defense is stacked, but they can’t sleep on the Winnipeg Jets whose offense has been steady all season.  This is a match-up worth watching.

Pick : Leaning towards the Predators, but we want to hear what you think! Who’s got this series: Preds or Jets?

Golden Knights vs Sharks

Vegas Golden Knights NHL Spring Flex Cap, San Jose Sharks NHL Spring Flex Cap

Can we take a second to talk about the Vegas Knights? This record-breaking team has been dominating during their inaugural season and it’s been exciting to watch. Their first round sweep of the Kings proved they belong in the talk for eventual champions. Marc-Andre Fleury’s performance has been leading this defensive squad and will be a key player in the next series. But will this first-year team continue to smash records and eventually hold that Stanley Cup at the end? Anything is possible.

The Sharks also got out their brooms and did some sweeping as well against the Anaheim Ducks, so they can’t be overlooked. They’ve got a powerhouse roster comprised of veteran players like Joe Thornton, Patrick Marleu, and Brent Burns, so their thirst for victory is real.

Pick: The Golden Knights. Everyone loves a good storyline and if Vegas pulls this off it’ll definitely be the most movie-ready plot-line in hockey since the Mighty Ducks won one for Coach Bombay. But what do you think, will the Sharks pull out the W for this series?

Penguins vs Capitals

Washington Capitals adidas NHL Core Snapback Cap, Pittsburgh Penguins New Era NHL Basic 59FIFTY Cap

If anyone wants a Stanley Cup this year, it’s the Washington Capitals. They’ve had some amazing seasons and even the best records in hockey in recent years, but have fallen short in the playoffs. After a rough start, they were able to turn it around thanks to some solid playing by Alex Ovechkin and the Capitals secured their spot and are back where they were last year. The real challenge will be when they face the Penguins.

Can the Pittsburgh Penguins snag a Stanley Cup for a third straight year? Experience and star players like Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Phil Kessel and Kris Letang should help the Penguins secure another trip to the Championship. If this team stays focused, a three-peat could be in the cards.

Pick: The Penguins.  They’ve got the players to pull out a W for a third straight year but do you think their championship streak will stop at the Capitals?

Lighting vs Bruins

Tampa Bay Lightning adidas NHL Core Snapback Cap, Boston Bruins adidas NHL Core Snapback Cap

For the Tampa Bay Lightning, their offense will get them through the playoffs. This experienced team is ready for redemption after the tough loss to the Blackhawks back in 2015. The key players are still here and they’ve just gotten better over time. I think if they stay focused, the wins will just keep coming.

The Boston Bruins are killing it this season despite having player injuries. They’ve got an advantage by having two goalies that have thrived this year. Pair that with a well balanced roster of young players and veterans like Patrice Bergeron and they can definitely be a contender for the Stanley Cup.

Pick: The Lightning. They’ve been dominating the Eastern Conference and we think they’ll keep it going.

So those are just our predictions, but we want to hear yours! Share with us who you think will hoist the Stanley Cup this year by tagging us on our social channels @lids.