Bracket Simulator
Ice Hockey · 2026/27 season
Predictions open in 106 days

NHL Playoff Bracket Predictor & Stanley Cup Predictions

Sixteen teams, four rounds, one Cup. When the Stanley Cup Playoffs arrive you'll fill out the entire NHL bracket — every first-round series, the conference finals, and your champion hoisting the Stanley Cup.

A free NHL bracket challenge for friend groups and office pools: lock your bracket, share one link, and watch a live leaderboard track who called the playoffs best.

What you'll be able to predict

  • Every first-round series in both conferences.
  • The conference semi-finals and finals.
  • Both Stanley Cup finalists.
  • Your Stanley Cup champion.
  • Series winners round by round.

Key facts

Format
16-team single-elimination bracket
League
NHL (USA & Canada)
Window
Playoffs: Apr–Jun 2027
Predictions open
≈ 2 weeks before puck drop

Contenders to watch

Recent contenders like the Florida Panthers, Edmonton Oilers, Dallas Stars and Carolina Hurricanes head the Stanley Cup picture.

Frequently asked questions

Is the the NHL playoffs prediction game free?+

Yes — predicting the NHL playoffs on Bracket Simulator is completely free. No fees, no premium tier, no catch.

When do the NHL playoffs predictions open?+

Predictions open about two weeks before the NHL playoffs gets underway. The countdown on this page shows exactly how long is left.

How does the NHL bracket challenge work?+

You fill out the full 16-team Stanley Cup bracket before the playoffs begin, picking the winner of every series through to the Cup. You score points each round as the real results come in.

Can I play the the NHL playoffs predictor with friends?+

Yes. You'll be able to start a private league for the NHL playoffs, share one invite link, and battle your friends on a live leaderboard.

Predict NHL

Predictions open in 106 days. Free to play when it opens.

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