The Colorado Avalanche enter May as the top favorites for the 2026 Stanley Cup after sweeping the Los Angeles Kings. As the second round approaches, shifting momentum and key prospect call-ups are redefining the rankings for the remaining eleven contenders.

Ranked No. 2, the Carolina Hurricanes finished as the top team in the Eastern Conference and ranked second overall in the regular season.

They ranked second in goals scored per game, eighth in goals allowed per game, and fourth on the power play. In the first round of the NHL Playoffs, they swept the Ottawa Senators.

The Minnesota Wild is at No. 3 for its consistent run throughout the season. They have a strong defense and won the first round against the Dallas Stars 4-2. Minnesota is also one of the serious contenders to go big in this season. 

At No. 4, the Buffalo Sabres are currently leading the series 3-2 against the Boston Bruins. They overcame early-season challenges and pushed themselves to the top of the Atlantic Division.

The Montreal Canadiens complete the top 5 NHL power rankings before May.

They are a strong attacking team with the sixth-best scoring this season. Currently squared 3-3 against Tampa, their form is decent, and momentum will be key to winning the series.

The other half

The Tampa Bay Lightning is at No. 6, which will be locking horns against the Canadiens on May 03, 2026, in Game 7. They had a long winning streak in the season, and they have the experience to make a comeback. 

The Philadelphia Flyers are No. 7 in this list. They relied on strong defense and goaltending throughout the regular season. However, their offense improved quickly when they called up top prospect Porter Martone.

The Vegas Golden Knights come in at No. 8, who did not perform as expected in the regular season. But now that it’s over, this talented roster has started to show its true level and play much better.

With a strong offense, the Anaheim Ducks have somehow managed to seal the playoffs spot. They have won the first round of the playoffs against the Edmonton Oilers 4-2. However, their defense and goaltending are still a concern. 

Finishing the list, the Boston Bruins and Utah Mammoth are at No. 10 and 11, respectively. The Bruins entered the playoffs after a poor April, relying on defense while their offense struggled.

Utah Mammoth surprised many, using strong defense and goaltending to challenge Vegas despite a weaker offense.

So these are the top 11 teams in the NHL playoffs power rankings before entering the month of May.

The teams that adapt quickly, stay disciplined, and perform under pressure will ultimately emerge as true championship contenders.

Read more at NHL Fan Central!

Written by

Kapil Manghnani

Edited by

Suyashdeep Sason