The 2026 Stanley Cup Final is set:
š Carolina Hurricanes vs. Vegas Golden Knights.
My prediction:
Carolina Hurricanes in 6 games
Why Carolina has the edge:
- They enter the Final with a remarkable 12-1 playoff record.
Goaltender Frederik Andersen has been outstanding and is among the Conn Smythe favorites.
Carolina has allowed only 21 goals in 13 playoff games, making them the stingiest defensive team remaining.
Most sportsbooks currently list Carolina as the favorite heading into the series.
Why Vegas can still win:
- The Golden Knights swept the heavily favored Colorado Avalanche in the Western Conference Final.
Veterans such as Mark Stone and newcomer Mitch Marner have provided elite two-way play.
Vegas already knows what it takes to win a Stanley Cup, having captured the championship in 2023.
Conn Smythe prediction: Frederik Andersen if Carolina wins.
Series prediction: Carolina 4, Vegas 2. Final game score: Hurricanes 3, Golden Knights 2.