Can the Remaining Three Canadian Teams Compete for Lord Stanley's Cup?

(TSN.ca)

The 2025 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs present an opportunity for a Canadian team to possibly break the 32-year championship dry spell. As of May 10, 2025, three Canadian teams are still in the running: the Toronto Maple Leafs, Edmonton Oilers, and Winnipeg Jets. Here's why each team has a real chance of winning the Cup:

Toronto Maple Leafs: Offensive Firepower Meets Playoff Maturity

The Maple Leafs have demonstrated significant growth this postseason. After a dominant 4–2 series win over the Ottawa Senators, Toronto now leads the Florida Panthers 2–1 in their second-round matchup. This marks a notable departure from their previous playoff exits.SBNation.com

Key Strengths:

• Dynamic Offense: Led by William Nylander and Mitch Marner, the Leafs boast one of the most potent forward lines in the league.

• Goaltending Stability: Anthony Stolarz has provided consistent and reliable goaltending, alleviating past concerns in net. Will Joseph Woll be able to continue this consistency in net?  

• Depth Contributions: Support from players like Max Domi and Simon Benoit has added depth and balance to the lineup.

If the Leafs continue to play with this level of maturity and cohesion, they could very well be on the path to ending Canada's championship drought.

Edmonton Oilers: Superstars Poised for Redemption

The Oilers have showcased resilience, overcoming a 0–2 deficit against the Los Angeles Kings to win the series 4–2 . Currently, they lead the Vegas Golden Knights 3–1 in their second-round series, demonstrating their capability to perform under pressure.SBNation.com

Key Strengths:

• Elite Talent: Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl are among the league's top performers, capable of turning games in an instant.

• Improved Goaltending: Calvin Pickard has shown significant improvement, providing the team with the stability needed in net.SI

• Playoff Experience: Having reached the Stanley Cup Final last season, the Oilers possess valuable postseason experience.

With their star power and recent form, the Oilers are strong contenders for the Cup.

 

Winnipeg Jets: Dominant Regular Season Translates to Playoffs

The Jets have been a force to reckon with, finishing the regular season with the best record in the NHL and securing the Presidents' Trophy. They advanced past the St. Louis Blues in a seven-game series, showcasing their depth and resilience.

Key Strengths:

• Balanced Scoring: With contributions from Kyle Connor and Mark Scheifele, the Jets have a well-rounded offensive attack.

• Defensive Solidity: A strong defensive corps and goaltender Connor Hellebuyck's stellar performance in game 2 of the second round have been pivotal.

• Team Cohesion: The Jets' collective effort and depth make them a formidable opponent for any team.

If they continue playing at a high level, with Hellebuyck performing at his peak and the depth in their lineup beginning to contribute, they have a genuine chance of winning the Stanley Cup.

With three Canadian teams still in the hunt, 2025 could indeed be the year a Canadian franchise hoists the Stanley Cup for the first time since 1993.