The Last Ranking of the Season

Welcome to the thrilling conclusion of the 2024-25 NHL season! Longtime fans know what this means: a comprehensive ranking of the top 16 teams headed to the playoffs. We'll also dive into the Gold Plan standings for the bottom five teams, and sprinkle in some oddly specific predictions to keep things exciting!

Playoff Anticipation Looms

Initially, I was anxious about the season wrapping up on a Thursday, fearing it might lead to a dramatic race for playoff spots. However, the NHL spared us the nail-biting finish; we already see most teams solidified in their playoff positions. A bit anticlimactic, but at least we have clarity!

Oddly Specific Predictions for Round 1

Let's kick things off with five delightfully bizarre predictions for the first round of playoffs, a beloved tradition around these parts. Last playoffs, I made a respectable 40% success rate with my predictions, but this year, I’m aiming even higher!

**5. Brace Yourself for Brady Tkachuk's Antics** — In the inevitable matchup against the Maple Leafs, expect Tkachuk to pull a controversial stunt that will rile up Toronto fans and stir debates, all while making both fanbases insufferable.

**4. Oilers to Steal Game 1 in LA** — Anticipate some snarky comments about the irony of losing home ice advantage immediately. Bonus: the Kings will snag their first win in Edmonton!

**3. Stars vs. Avalanche Could Be a Sweep** — Here’s hoping I’m wrong, but it’s a bold prediction for what could be a magnificent series!

**2. Habs to Shut Out Capitals Early** — This shocking prediction will send fans into a frenzy, reminiscent of historical playoff upsets, only for the Caps to prevail in five!

**1. The Stanley Cup Champion Will Lose Game 1 in Overtime** — Yes, that means if your team goes to OT in the opener, prepare for some nail-biting moments!

Road to the Cup: Top Teams

Here are the 16 playoff teams ranked from least to most likely to clinch the Stanley Cup, based on current matchups:

**16. Montreal Canadiens** — Their presence in the playoffs feels miraculous; perhaps they’ll surprise us once again.

**15. Minnesota Wild** — This team is decent but ultimately mediocre in the competitive playoff landscape.

**14. St. Louis Blues** — A well-rounded team that may falter under pressure.

**13. New Jersey Devils** — Without Jack Hughes, their playoff journey seems precarious.

**12. Los Angeles Kings** — A tough matchup against the Oilers puts them at a disadvantage.

**11. Ottawa Senators** — Look out for them; their scrappy attitude could lead to a shocking postseason run.

**10. Toronto Maple Leafs** — It’s the same story every year: immense talent, yet lingering doubts about their postseason success.

**9. Tampa Bay Lightning** — Unsure if they can elevate their gameplay, but we know they possess the potential.

**8. Edmonton Oilers** — Their playoff roster looks solid, provided key players return.

**7. Colorado Avalanche** — The return of Gabriel Landeskog may significantly impact their performance.

**6. Florida Panthers** — They've consistently been a force, and I believe they will continue to surprise.

**5. Washington Capitals** — A late-season drop doesn't diminish their capabilities heading into the playoffs.

**4. Dallas Stars** — They experienced a late-season slump, but they’re still formidable.

**3. Carolina Hurricanes** — A solid pick from the Metro, they could make a deep run.

**2. Vegas Golden Knights** — They have a clear, favorable path through the playoffs.

**1. Winnipeg Jets** — With their stellar goalie and hungry fan base, they’re primed for a Cup run!

The Bottom Five: A Race for Draft Lottery Glory

Now, let’s look at the teams navigating towards the bottom, vying for top draft lottery odds under the Gold Plan. This year's standings might look peculiar as we consider how elimination races unfolded differently across conferences.

In an unexpected twist, the Eastern Conference saw teams cling to playoff hopes late into the season, while teams in the West were busy piling up Gold Plan points for early elimination.

A Season’s End and A Call to Action

Thanks for following along with another thrilling season! As the playoffs kick off, remember to submit your predictions and see how accurate you can be. Let’s gear up for an exhilarating postseason filled with unpredictable moments and unforgettable action!

Enjoy the playoffs, and we’ll reconvene in October for even more hockey excitement!