
As the Stanley Cup Playoffs kick off, Canadian hockey enthusiasts ponder a significant question: Is this the year the Cup finds its way back home?
Over three decades have passed since a Canadian squad last hoisted Lord Stanley’s trophy, with the Montreal Canadiens being the last in 1993. Since that time, the drought has transformed into a nationwide topic of discussion, stirring hope and disappointment each spring, alongside that persistent query: Why not us?
When Souls of Mischief released 93 ‘Til Infinity, they likely never anticipated that their song title would become a somber forecast for Canadian hockey. Yet, here we are in 2025, still holding on to our dreams.
Let's examine how each Canadian team is positioned now that the playoffs have commenced, and assess their chances of overcoming the long-standing curse.
Vancouver Canucks
The Canucks’ season has come to an end, as they failed to qualify for the playoffs after hoping for a miracle that did not materialize. Despite glimpses of potential, internal conflicts marred their year. Fans are now looking ahead to 2025–26, wishing for greater consistency and a genuine playoff push.
Calgary Flames
The Flames narrowly missed out on a playoff position, despite an unexpectedly strong season. Much of their success stemmed from rookie goaltender Dustin Wolf , who has turned heads and looks poised to be a finalist for the Calder Trophy. Calgary was not anticipated to contend, which gives fans hope that a solid foundation is being constructed, along with the knowledge that they may have discovered their future goaltender.
Montreal Canadiens
Montreal has secured a playoff spot and will go up against the formidable Washington Capitals , led by the newly established all-time NHL goal scorer, Alex Ovechkin . This matchup resembles a classic David versus Goliath scenario. However, Canadiens fans can draw inspiration from the past: the last time these teams faced off in the playoffs (2010), the eighth-seeded Canadiens pulled off an upset against the top-ranked Capitals. Could history repeat itself?
What adds to the anticipation? Montreal’s highly regarded prospect, Ivan Demidov , recently parted ways with his KHL contract and has joined the team just in time for the playoffs. Coupled with Lane Hutson’s remarkable rookie performance, even if this year isn't the year, Montreal's future looks extremely promising.
Ottawa Senators
The Senators have officially broken their eight-year playoff drought, with all eyes on Brady Tkachuk’s inaugural postseason appearance. If his international performances are anything to go by, fans are likely in for an exhilarating experience. The addition of Linus Ullmark has provided much-needed stability in goal. While a prolonged playoff run may be ambitious, this experience could mark a significant turning point for Ottawa.
Edmonton Oilers
The Oilers are back in the mix after last year’s journey to the Stanley Cup Final. With Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl back to full fitness, this team poses a significant threat. However, they are up against a familiar opponent: the Los Angeles Kings , whom they have eliminated for three consecutive years. This time, though, the Kings have the advantage of playing on home ice and boast the best home record in the league.
Compounding concerns are Stuart Skinner’s struggles following the 4 Nations break, along with injuries to key defensemen like Mattias Ekholm . Nonetheless, the Oilers come equipped with playoff experience and the prowess of McDavid—anything is possible.
Toronto Maple Leafs
Fans in Toronto are weary of seeing their team bow out early. It’s a crucial moment for the Leafs' core players— Auston Matthews , Mitch Marner , and William Nylander . For them to find success, reaching the Conference Final is the minimum expectation this year.
With Craig Berube stepping in as head coach, the team appears more prepared for the playoffs than in previous seasons. Improved offensive contributions from secondary players and a potential first-round matchup against the Ottawa Senators seem promising. Should the Leafs manage to navigate early obstacles and capitalize on their opportunities, this could represent their best chance at playoff success in decades.
Winnipeg Jets
Which Canadian team could have the greatest chance? We would point to the Winnipeg Jets .
This smaller market team has been steadily building strength and is likely to face the underperforming Minnesota Wild in the first round of the playoffs. Winnipeg is in good health with Pionk and Ehlers returning to the lineup, and their playoff path appears favorable: if they progress, they will face the victor of a challenging Dallas vs. Colorado series.
Everything appears to be in place for a significant playoff run by the Jets. Let’s be honest—having Canada celebrating a Cup victory in Winnipeg would have a certain poetic justice to it.
So… Is This the Year?
With three strong contenders— Winnipeg , Toronto , and Edmonton —the prospects of ending the drought look brighter than they have in recent years. Whether it’s the Leafs, the Jets, or McDavid’s Oilers, the dream of winning the Cup remains very much alive.
Could 2025 finally be the year to lift the curse? While we cannot be certain, there’s one thing we confidently know: it’s going to be an exhilarating journey.
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