We’ve finally made it. The best time of the year. HOCKEY SEASON IS BACK.

With the new season upon us, it’s time for me, a totally normal guy with no real credibility other than working for a hockey company and watching way too much hockey, to take a deeper dive into the 2025–26 NHL season.

Here are my bold predictions for the year:

The Florida Panthers

Whether you like it or not, the Florida Panthers are built to three-peat. Their depth is unmatched across the league, and they’ve proven time and time again they know how to win when it counts, making the Stanley Cup Final three straight years and hoisting the Cup the last two.

The one thing that could slow them down? The absence of captain Aleksander Barkov for the season, and Matthew Tkachuk’s questionable status to start the year. Still, this team is loaded. Even without a full lineup, Florida is a force to be reckoned with and absolutely belongs in the championship conversation.

The Dallas Stars

My pick to win it all this year.

Dallas has been knocking on the door for what feels like forever. They’re built like a champion - with forward depth, solid defense, and one of the best goaltenders in the league in Jake Ottinger.

If they can stay healthy, don’t be surprised to see Dallas sitting near the top of the standings come April. The real question is: can they finally get it done when it matters most?

The Montreal Canadiens

A young, hungry, and dangerous team if things fall their way.

Montreal caught fire at the end of last season, sneaking into the playoffs after an impressive late push. Their roster is starting to come together, and fans have plenty to be excited about, especially rookie Ivan Demidov.

The 2024 5th overall pick gave fans a quick preview last season, scoring a goal and adding an assist in just two games. This year, the Canadiens are hoping for a full 82 from the young Russian phenom. If that happens, Demidov could very well cement himself as one of the NHL’s next big stars.

Player Awards

Rocket Richard Trophy – Kirill Kaprizov

Kaprizov missed a big chunk of 2024/25 due to injury but was on pace for 50 goals. Healthy and motivated, he’s ready to return as one of the league’s most dangerous goal scorers. He also just got PAID - expect a big season for the Russian.

Art Ross Trophy – Mitch Marner

Despite his first 100-point season in Toronto in 2025, Mitch Marner and the Leafs could not reach a deal. Mitch has a chip on his shoulder this year, and the 2025/26 Marner revenge tour will be something to keep an eye on.

Hart Trophy – Mitch Marner

For the same reason above. 2025/26 Marner will be special.

Norris Trophy – Zach Werenski

One of the most underrated players in the league, in my opinion. Werenski took a huge step up last year with a career high of 82 points, shattering his previous record of 57. The Norris gets a little funky as it’s recently become the “best offensive defenseman” award. Assuming it stays this way, Zach is my pick.

Vezina Trophy – Igor Shesterkin

After a down year, Shesterkin is primed for a bounce-back. Expect him to be lights-out in net for the Rangers and reclaim the Vezina for a second time in his career.

Calder Trophy – Ivan Demidov

Demidov enters a team that’s young, skilled, and ready to lean on him. He’s in the perfect spot for a strong rookie season and should make a big impact right away.

What your thoughts? How will this season shake up? I am sure we will disagree on a few, if not all, of the above takes. But one thing I am sure we can agree on; boy am I glad hockey is back!