The NHL’s future, according to 20,000 fans: Cup picks, expansion and biggest winners

The Athletic conducted a large-scale NHL fan survey gathering responses from 20,000 fans, with this third and final installment focusing on predictions for the league's future, including Stanley Cup picks, expansion plans, and outdoor games. Three teams emerged as clear Stanley Cup favorites, each receiving between 20 and 24 percent of votes. The Florida Panthers were highlighted as a major contender after their blockbuster trade for Brady Tkachuk in June, giving them a formidable forward core alongside Aleksander Barkov, Matthew Tkachuk, Sam Reinhart, and Brad Marchand.