Canes vs. Knights: Analysts expect a six- or seven-game Cup Final with an open MVP race

The Stanley Cup Final pits the Carolina Hurricanes against the Vegas Golden Knights, with The Athletic’s staff largely predicting a Carolina victory in six or seven games due to depth and relentless forechecking, though a few foresee Vegas winning in six or seven thanks to their late-season form. The Conn Smythe MVP debate is wide-ranging, frequently highlighting Frederik Andersen for Carolina, while several writers name Hurricanes or Knights stars (including Hall, Blake, Stankoven, Miller) and even Vegas options like Marner as plausible MVPs depending on how the series unfolds.