The 2023-24 NHL season is about to begin, bringing with it a new season of excitement, rivalries, and high-stakes competition. As fans eagerly await the start of the season, the ESPN hockey family has come together to make their predictions for the winners of each division, the Stanley Cup champion, and the players who will take home the major awards. Let’s dive into these predictions and see what the experts have to say.
In the Atlantic Division, the consensus seems to be in favor of the Toronto Maple Leafs. With an impressive roster and strong performances in recent seasons, the Maple Leafs have garnered the support of many of the ESPN hockey experts. However, there are a few voices that believe the Florida Panthers and the Tampa Bay Lightning could also be contenders for the top spot in the division.
Moving on to the Metropolitan Division, the battle for supremacy is expected to be intense. The experts are split between the Carolina Hurricanes and the New Jersey Devils, with a slight majority leaning towards the Devils. However, the Pittsburgh Penguins are also seen as potential contenders in the division.
In the Central Division, the Colorado Avalanche appear to be the favorites among the ESPN hockey family. Their stacked lineup and previous success make them a formidable force to be reckoned with. However, the Dallas Stars are also seen as strong contenders in the division, with the Minnesota Wild trailing behind.
Finally, in the Pacific Division, the Edmonton Oilers are predicted to come out on top. Led by superstar Connor McDavid, the Oilers have been a dominant force in recent years and are expected to continue their winning ways. The Vegas Golden Knights, who were last season’s Stanley Cup champions, also received some support from the experts, along with the Los Angeles Kings and the Seattle Kraken.
When it comes to the ultimate prize, the Stanley Cup, the predictions are varied. Many experts believe that the Vegas Golden Knights have what it takes to repeat as champions. However, other teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs, Colorado Avalanche, and Edmonton Oilers are also seen as strong contenders for the title. It will undoubtedly be an exciting and hard-fought journey to the Stanley Cup.
In terms of individual awards, Connor McDavid is the clear favorite to win the Hart Trophy, given to the league’s most valuable player. McDavid’s exceptional skill and impact on the game have earned him a remarkable level of support from the experts. Other players like Auston Matthews and Jack Hughes also received some votes.
For the Art Ross Trophy, which is awarded to the league’s leading scorer, the consensus is once again in favor of Connor McDavid. McDavid’s incredible offensive prowess has made him a scoring machine, and it is no surprise that he is the top choice among the ESPN hockey family.
When it comes to the Rocket Richard Trophy, given to the player with the most goals in a season, the predictions are more varied. While McDavid received some votes, players like Auston Matthews and David Pastrnak are also seen as strong contenders for the award.
Moving on to the Norris Trophy for the league’s best defenseman, the predictions lean in favor of Cale Makar. Makar’s skill, speed, and ability to contribute offensively make him a top choice. However, players like Adam Fox and Miro Heiskanen are also seen as potential winners.
For the Vezina Trophy, awarded to the league’s top goaltender, the experts are divided between several goalies. Jake Oettinger, Ilya Sorokin, and Igor Shesterkin are among the names that received votes, but the competition is tight, and it remains to be seen who will come out on top.
As the 2023-24 NHL season begins, the predictions of the ESPN hockey family offer a glimpse into the potential outcomes for the division winners, the Stanley Cup champion, and the major award winners. However, in the world of sports, anything can happen, and it will be fascinating to see how the season unfolds and if these predictions hold true. Fans can expect an exhilarating season filled with exciting matchups, standout performances, and unforgettable moments on the ice.
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