2025 NHL Playoff Predictions - 1st Round

The 2025 NHL Playoffs are underway, and while the first round offers a mix of heavy hitters and early exits, there are a few matchups that promise pure chaos—think Panthers vs. Lightning, Stars vs. Avalanche, and yet another chapter in the Oilers vs. Kings rivalry. While some teams are likely to cruise through their opening series, all eyes will be on Alexander Ovechkin as he looks to will the Capitals toward one last deep run. Expect fireworks early, but the real drama is coming in the second round.

Western Conference First Round

Winnipeg Jets vs. St. Louis Blues

The Jets enter the playoffs as the league’s top team, and they look every bit the part. With Connor Hellebuyck once again standing tall as the best goaltender in the game, Winnipeg has been shutting teams down all season. The Blues may have surged into the playoffs, but they’re outmatched here. Winnipeg’s depth, defense, and elite goaltending will be too much for St. Louis to handle.

Prediction: Jets def. Blues in 5 games.

Dallas Stars vs. Colorado Avalanche

This is the headliner of the West. The Avalanche boast top-end talent and come into the series as Cup favorites according to Vegas—but don’t count out the Stars. Dallas is battle-tested, with a physical, structured approach that thrives in playoff settings. Expect this to go the distance, and for the Stars’ consistency and playoff savvy to give them the edge.

Prediction: Stars def. Avalanche in 7 games.

Vegas Golden Knights vs. Minnesota Wild

The Wild might give the defending champs a scare, but ultimately Vegas has too much firepower and too much experience. Minnesota will make things gritty, but Vegas can match that energy and then some. The Knights take control as the series progresses and close it out on the road.

Prediction: Knights def. Wild in 6 games.

Los Angeles Kings vs. Edmonton Oilers

One of the most compelling matchups of the opening round, the Kings will push the Oilers to the brink. But McDavid, Draisaitl, and Edmonton’s top-end skill should ultimately prove too much for L.A. This will be a fast, physical, high-scoring series—but one where the Oilers shine brightest under pressure.

Prediction: Oilers def. Kings in 7 games.

Eastern Conference First Round

Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Ottawa Senators

The Senators are finally back in the postseason, and it's well deserved for the team and the fanbase. But they’ve drawn a tough matchup in a loaded Toronto team. The Leafs are deeper, faster, and more playoff-ready. It’ll be a good learning experience for Ottawa, but this one won’t go long.

Prediction: Maple Leafs def. Senators in 5 games.

Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Florida Panthers

Rivalry series alert—and it’s going to be nasty. These teams don’t like each other, and the history between them guarantees intensity. The Panthers’ grit, depth, and the addition of Brad Marchand give them the edge. Expect big hits, chirps, and statement wins as Florida wears down Tampa.

Prediction: Panthers def. Lightning in 6 games.

Washington Capitals vs. Montreal Canadiens

The Caps are locked in and led by a fired-up Alexander Ovechkin, fresh off becoming the NHL’s all-time leading goal scorer. This team is deep, well-coached, and motivated. Montreal might steal a close game, but don’t be surprised if the brooms come out early.

Prediction: Capitals def. Canadiens in 4 games.

Carolina Hurricanes vs. New Jersey Devils

The Devils are back in the postseason but draw a nightmare matchup against the Hurricanes—again. Carolina is fast, physical, and disciplined, and they’ve had New Jersey’s number. The Devils might keep one close, but the Canes should control this series from the opening faceoff.

Prediction: Hurricanes def. Devils in 5 games