– ESPN: 12/24
– Bleacher Report: 5/7
– NY Post: 1/3
– Sportsnet: 16/20
– Dobber Hockey: 9/19
– TSN: 6/7
– CBS Sports: 1/2
– The Sporting News: 1/1
– The Hockey News: 17/56
– Daily Faceoff: 4/7
– USA Today: 0/2
Here are some notable insights from individual writers and broadcasters:
**Lyle Richardson, Bleacher Report:**
The Stars boast deep forward lines with a strong blend of veteran leadership from Jamie Benn, Tyler Seguin, and Matt Duchene, alongside players like Jason Robertson and Roope Hintz entering their prime, and up-and-comers like Wyatt Johnston and Logan Stankoven. Jake Oettinger, at just 25, already has four seasons of NHL experience and is considered one of the league’s top goaltenders. While their defense could use more depth on the right side, their top three—Miro Heiskanen, Esa Lindell, and Thomas Harley—remain solid. Expect Stars GM Jim Nill to address that right-side need before the trade deadline, potentially making them a Stanley Cup threat.
**Mary Clarke, USA Today:**
“I get it, the Oilers are the popular pick to run it back, and McDavid winning his first Stanley Cup is a great story, but this is Dallas’ year. Book it.”
**Frank Seravalli, The Daily Faceoff:**
The Edmonton Oilers will end Canada’s 32-year Stanley Cup drought. They’ll follow in the footsteps of the Florida Panthers, becoming the second consecutive team to lose in the Cup Final one year and triumph the next. With Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, it’s not a question of if, but when.
**Bryan Murphy, The Sporting News:**
Dallas has come close to the Cup several times in recent seasons. The team’s depth and disciplined structure make them a serious contender. If Jake Oettinger finds his form in the playoffs, the Stars will be a formidable opponent.
**Sarah Civian, Bleacher Report:**
“It’ll be the Oilers. They know what it takes to end up only several plays or bounces away from actually doing it.”
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