The 2024 NHL season is shaping up to be an exciting one as the Florida Panthers look to defend their Stanley Cup title. All eyes will be on Connor McDavid to see if he can finally lead the Edmonton Oilers to glory, while the Toronto Maple Leafs face the age-old question: will they finally make a deep playoff run? In this season preview, we break down MVP contenders, project team standings, Stanley Cup, and give our NHL predictions. Buckle up—this season promises to be full of drama and surprises on the ice!
Stanley Cup Champion:
New York Rangers (+1300) def. Winnipeg Jets in 6 games.
The New York Rangers are primed to make a deep run to the Stanley Cup this year thanks to a perfect blend of talent, depth, and experience. Led by their star goaltender Igor Shesterkin, one of the league's elite, the Rangers boast a formidable defense that can shut down any opponent. Offensively, they have a balanced attack with elite forwards like Artemi Panarin and Mika Zibanejad, supported by rising stars such as Alexis Lafrenière and Kaapo Kakko. Although Kakko had a disappointing season in 23-24, I think he turns it around big time this year. Their combination of veteran leadership and youthful energy creates a dynamic roster capable of excelling in high-pressure situations. With a solid coaching staff led by Peter Laviolette and Co, they are built from playoff experience, the Rangers have all the pieces to end their Cup drought this season.
Hart Memorial Trophy (MVP):
Connor McDavid - Edmonton Oilers (+150)
Last year, Colorado's Nathan MacKinnon won the MVP, which I believe is voters fatigue. When it comes to the Hart Trophy, Connor McDavid usually has that on lock. He's been the most dominant player in the league for several seasons now and shows no signs of slowing down. One win away from the biggest comeback in the history of hockey will only fuel and motivate McDavid. He not only leads the team in scoring but also elevates the play of his teammates, making those around him better. When it's all said and done, McDavid could finish his career with the most MVP awards in NHL history.
Calder Trophy (Rookie of the Year):
Macklin Celebrini - San Jose Sharks (+550)
Macklin Celebrini is poised to put the San Jose Sharks back on the map. At (+550), Celebrini has a good chance to win ROY due to his exceptional skill set, hockey IQ, and ability to make an immediate impact. If the Sharks can just win a few more games than last year, it will be an improvement for such a dreadful team. As the #1 overall pick, Celebrini brings a rare combination of elite skating, goal-scoring prowess, and playmaking vision. Similiar to his Boston University days, the ability to navigate the ice and create scoring opportunities for himself and teammates will make him a key offensive contributor for the Sharks from day one. With San Jose in need of a dynamic playmaker, Celebrini will likely get top-line minutes and power-play opportunities, allowing his talent to shine. His maturity, poise under pressure, and natural leadership further set him apart as a favorite for the Calder Trophy.
Vezina Trophy (Best Goaltender):
Jake Oettinger - Dallas Stars (+950)
Oettinger’s technical prowess and athleticism allow him to make incredible saves, while under pressure he excels in high-stakes situations. His ability to track pucks and read plays is second to none, giving him an edge over the competition.
As the backbone of the Stars’ defense, Oettinger has been a key factor in the team’s success over the past few years, posting stellar save percentages and goals-against averages. Dallas’s strong defensive structure and Oettinger’s growing confidence as a starting goaltender position him perfectly to dominate throughout the season, making his (+950) look great value-wise.
Eastern Conference Standings:
Florida Panthers
Toronto Maple Leafs
New York Rangers
New Jersey Devils
Boston Bruins
Carolina Hurricanes
Tampa Bay Lightning
Detroit Red Wings
Ottawa Senators
Pittsburgh Penguins
Montreal Canadiens
Philadelphia Flyers
New York Islanders
Washington Capitals
Buffalo Sabres
Columbus Blue Jackets
Western Conference Standings:
Dallas Stars
Winnipeg Jets
Vegas Golden Knights
Calgary Flames
Colorado Avalanche
Edmonton Oilers
Vancouver Canucks
Minnesota Wild
Seattle Kraken
Utah Hockey Club
Los Angeles Kings
St. Louis Blues
Nashville Predators
Chicago Blackhawks
Anaheim Ducks
San Jose Sharks
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