The Florida Panthers are eyeing a repeat as Stanley Cup champions, and their regular season performance suggests they are more than capable. With a 42-20-8 record, the Panthers have been one of the most consistent teams in the NHL this season.
Core Remains Intact
Aleksander Barkov continues to be one of the best two-way centers in hockey, recording 78 points while playing elite defense. Matthew Tkachuk has 85 points and brings an edge that is invaluable come playoff time. Sergei Bobrovsky has posted a .918 save percentage in net.
Western Conference Threats
The Dallas Stars and Edmonton Oilers look like the biggest threats from the West. Connor McDavid is having another otherworldly season with 125 points, and Edmonton playoff experience from last year run to the Cup Final makes them dangerous.
Prediction
While repeating is incredibly difficult in the NHL, the Panthers have the depth, goaltending, and championship poise to make another deep run. A Panthers vs. Oilers rematch in the Cup Final would be must-see hockey.
