Stanley Cup contenders for 2026-27 season, according to NHL.com’s Dan Rosen

NHL.com senior writer Dan Rosen has released his top seven Stanley Cup contenders for the 2026-27 season, with the Montreal Canadiens topping his list. Rosen highlights the Canadiens' growing playoff experience, having lost to the Washington Capitals in the first round in 2025 before reaching the Eastern Conference Final the following season. The Golden Knights and Hurricanes are also among the featured contenders, with the NHL season set to begin on September 29.