Stanley Cup playoffs NHL power rankings entering May
The NHL postseason is where everything changes. Matchups tighten. Stars emerge, and sometimes disappear.
And as the intensity ramps up, the true contenders for the Stanley Cup begin to separate themselves from the rest. Here are the Stanley Cup Playoffs power rankings entering May, breaking down who looks like a true title threat and who might be running out of time. MORE: Penguins’ offseason begins with clear goal after Stanley Cup Playoff disaster 1.
Colorado Avalanche The Avalanche entered the playoffs as winners of this year’s Presidents Trophy. Colorado was the league’s best team throughout the season. They end the season 1 st in goals scored and goals allowed per game.
In round one, they swept the Los Angeles Kings. 2. Carolina Hurricanes Apr 20, 2026; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; Carolina Hurricanes center Jordan Staal (11) looks on during the warmups before the game against the Ottawa Senators in game two of the first round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Lenovo Center.
Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images Carolina’s season was overshadowed by Colorado. The Hurricanes were the top Eastern Conference team and ranked 2 nd overall during the regular season. They ranked 2 nd in goals scored per game, 8 th in goals allowed per game, and 4 th on the power play.
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