The NHL season is set to commence with an exciting opening in Prague, followed by a stop in Finland in November, featuring over 1,200 games scheduled across North America. The Florida Panthers will raise their first Stanley Cup championship banner, while the Utah Hockey Club is gearing up for its inaugural game since relocating from Arizona, as part of a tripleheader on October 8.
This season will unfold over six months, culminating with the regular season's final day on April 17. Noteworthy players include Alex Ovechkin, who is just 42 goals shy of breaking Wayne Gretzky's all-time record. Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon, and Auston Matthews are anticipated to be frontrunners for the MVP title once again.
As the season progresses, the Stanley Cup could be awarded as late as June 23. Teams like the Panthers and Edmonton Oilers, who narrowly lost in Game 7 of the finals last season, are among the favorites to contend for the championship.
Experts have made their predictions for individual awards, with McDavid expected to win the Hart Trophy for MVP for the fourth time in nine years. Other notable mentions include Leon Draisaitl and Igor Shesterkin for the Vezina Trophy, while the Calder Trophy for the top rookie could see competition from Logan Stankoven and Lane Hutson.
In playoff predictions, teams such as Toronto, Florida, and Detroit are expected to shine in the Eastern Conference, while Dallas, Nashville, and Colorado are favorites in the Western Conference. The upcoming season promises to be filled with thrilling matchups and significant milestones.