The Stanley Cup is the ultimate prize in professional hockey. Each year, the pursuit to become Stanley Cup winners captivates fans across North America. As the 2025 NHL playoffs reach a fever pitch, let's explore recent champions, playoff contenders, and what experts are saying about this year’s heated competition.

Recent Stanley Cup Winners: The Path to Glory

The Florida Panthers have etched their name in NHL history. Winning the Stanley Cup for the first time, they triumphed over the Edmonton Oilers in a dramatic seven-game series during the 2023-24 season. Their journey was a blend of relentless teamwork and standout performances, inspiring a new generation of hockey fans. The Panthers' rise to join the list of Stanley Cup winners has energized the league and brought fresh attention to the sport in Florida.

You can read more about the Panthers' historic win and their impact on the NHL in this NHL.com feature.

The 2025 NHL Playoffs: Who Will Join the Cup Winners?

With the playoff field narrowed to top contenders, fans are eager to see who will join the elite ranks of Stanley Cup winners this year. Four teams remain in the hunt: the Florida Panthers, Carolina Hurricanes, Dallas Stars, and Edmonton Oilers. This diverse group represents the best of modern hockey. The Panthers seek a second consecutive championship, while the Stars and Oilers look to reclaim their former glory.

Experts have been making their picks for the conference finals and the Cup. According to ESPN’s playoff breakdown, there is strong support for the Florida Panthers and Dallas Stars to reach the Final. Much of their confidence comes from stellar goaltending and consistent scoring performances by star players on both teams.

Expert Predictions and Insights

Hockey analysts from The Athletic also weighed in on the possible outcome. Their latest poll shows 64.5% picking the Stars as this year’s Stanley Cup winners, with the Oilers and Panthers not far behind. The race for the Conn Smythe Trophy—awarded to the playoff MVP—features talent such as Mikko Rantanen, Connor McDavid, and Jake Oettinger. The intensity and unpredictability make this year’s postseason especially exciting.

Playoff success depends on more than just star power. Teams need depth, discipline, and reliable goaltending. The conference finals promise high drama, especially with several matchups repeating intense rivalries from recent seasons. As the games unfold, every shift can reshape the path to becoming Stanley Cup winners.

The Broader Impact: Beyond Winning the Cup

Securing the Stanley Cup is about more than adding another name to the trophy. For teams like the Panthers, a championship win boosts regional interest and expands the sport’s reach. Sold-out arenas and record viewership numbers reflect the Cup’s growing prestige in new markets.

Tournaments like the "4 Nations Face-Off" and NHL playoff runs are strengthening hockey’s global appeal. For further reading on how these events impact the sport, explore NHL.com’s coverage of sports event innovation.

Summary: Who Will Be the Next Stanley Cup Winners?

Every playoff season writes new history. Recent Stanley Cup winners, such as the Panthers, prove that perseverance and teamwork change the fortunes of any franchise. With the 2025 playoffs heating up, fans await the next champion to lift the Cup and join the NHL elite. Stay updated with expert predictions and enjoy the thrilling ride that only playoff hockey can deliver.