Metropolitan Division Wide Open Behind Champion Hurricanes

Jordan Staal celebrated after Carolina clinched the Stanley Cup in Game 6 over Vegas on June 14, 2026, in Las Vegas. The Hurricanes won 16 of 19 playoff games and return nearly the full roster, missing only goaltender Frederik Andersen. Jaccob Slavin said the locker room is built with hungry character already. Behind them the Metropolitan is a free-for-all for limited spots. Washington added Alex Tuch, Jordan Kyrou, Boone Jenner and Vincent Desharnais while Alex Ovechkin returns for a 22nd season. Tom Wilson said a Cup is all that matters to him and Ovechkin. Philadelphia won 15 of 21 late, beat Pittsburgh, then lost to Carolina. Jamie Drysdale said the one-year-older group has an itch. Sidney Crosby said last year exceeded expectations and the challenge is to elevate again. The Islanders dropped 14 of their last 22; Columbus swooned after a midseason coaching change. New Jersey kept coach Sheldon Keefe. Rangers GM Chris Drury sought depth; Pavel Dorofeyev said the group has skill and potential. Zach Werenski said someone has to miss and consistency will decide who gets in.