Certainty Amidst Chaos: Why The Colorado Avalanche Are Stanley Cup Favorites In 2026-27

The Hockey News has named the Colorado Avalanche as their Stanley Cup favorites for the 2026-27 NHL season, citing the team's strong roster built around Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar. The outlet had also predicted Colorado as favorites in 2026, but injuries to both Makar and MacKinnon derailed their playoff run, with the Avalanche ultimately being swept in the Western Conference Final. Despite that setback, the publication believes the team's core and supporting cast remain capable of contending for a championship.