Bleacher Report's 2026 Stanley Cup Contenders Ranking: Oilers and Jets Land in Surprising Positions

In 10th place are the Winnipeg Jets. The Presidents' Trophy win by the Jets last year was no accident. Kyle Connor, Mark Scheifele, and Gabriel Vilardi remain one of the top lines in the league.

Jonathan Toews returns to his hometown at age 37, and Gustav Nyquist adds depth. Connor Hellebuyck remains the NHL's top regular-season goalie, but his playoff resume is troubling.

One breakout stretch could change that, but Winnipeg's inability to fix lingering roster woes keeps them stuck in the early-round exit merry-go-round.

Edmonton Tops All Canadian Teams in 5th Place

The Edmonton Oilers are the highest-ranked Canadian team on the list, sitting 5th. Edmonton is never behind with Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, and the duo can win a playoff series by themselves. A healthy Zach Hyman brings punch.

But goaltending remains an issue, as Stuart Skinner has had big games, but the lack of a sure-thing tandem has hurt.

After back-to-back Cup Final defeats and offseason losses (Corey Perry, Jeff Skinner, Connor Brown, Evander Kane), there are questions about whether the window is closing.

The Toronto Maple Leafs were the only other team to crack the top 10 list, sitting in 9th spot. With their scoring punch and playoff experience, they are still a contender, but postseason frustration over the years dampens enthusiasm.

Top 10 Stanley Cup contenders:

1. Florida Panthers
2. Dallas Stars
3. Carolina Hurricanes
4. Vegas Golden Knights
5. Edmonton Oilers
6. New Jersey Devils
7. Tampa Bay Lightning
8. Colorado Avalanche
9. Toronto Maple Leafs
10. Winnipeg Jets

It's no surprise that the Florida Panthers top the list, and are in the driver's position in terms of a 3-peat for the Cup.

From proven regular-season giants like Winnipeg, to celebrity talent-fueled dynasties like Edmonton, to Toronto's annual playoff disappointment, the best hope of Canada to finally win the Cup all have the same dilemma: finally turning promise into a parade.