It’s been a weird year for the NHL. With COVID-19 restrictions forcing the NHL to make moves like never before, a division realignment shook up the league like a snow globe.

On top of the new divisions, the rivalries were even further intensified by the fact that teams weren’t able to play OUTSIDE the division.

As a result, we’re getting ready for what is sure to be one of the most unique Stanley Cup Playoffs in history.

We’re all about the potential dream matchups, baby! Some of which could only happen this season.

 

Boston Bruins vs. Toronto Maple Leafs

We don’t need to spend too much time on this one. The Boston Bruins and Toronto Maple Leafs have gotten to know each other very well in playoffs, but it’s been a one-sided affair since the turn of the century. Boston has eliminated the Leafs on three of the Leafs’ last four playoff appearances.

These two squads hate each other, and that makes for great hockey more often than not.

 

Boston Bruins vs. Montreal Canadiens

The only other possible Original Six matchup this season, the Bruins x Habs rivalry is one of the best in hockey. Usually playing in the Atlantic Division together, Boston and Montreal have been combatants for countless battles.

They have met in playoffs a record 34 times, last meeting in 2014 when the Habs beat the B’s to advance to the Conference Championship in seven games.

 

Edmonton Oilers vs. Pittsburgh Penguins

You may as well just say Connor McDavid vs. Sidney Crosby.

The two superstars are often subject to comparisons with the question usually being “who’s the best player in the NHL?” They are at different stages of their careers, but these two represent the best of the best.

They could meet in the Final even without the division realignment, but that doesn’t make this any less of a dream matchup.

 

Vegas Golden Knights vs. Washington Capitals
The only team the Knights couldn’t beat in 2018 come back to try to play spoiler again!

The Knights and the Capitals put on a thoroughly entertaining Stanley Cup Final that ended in Alex Ovechkin lifting his first Stanley Cup. Both teams have maintained two of the most well-balanced rosters since their last meeting three years ago, and this series would be a classic.

 

New York Islanders vs. Toronto Maple Leafs

When it comes to single-player revenge, John Tavares vs. the Isles is as good as it gets.

Tavares played for New York for nine seasons, captaining them for five, before departing for Toronto in 2018 free agency. He immediately became public enemy #1 for the Isles faithful, and he’s at the very centre of every storyline each time these two teams meet.

Either the Isles get the most satisfying revenge of all-time, or Tavares proves once and for all that he made the right decision. At least, for him.

 

Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Colorado Avalanche

Two of the most loaded rosters all around with top notch goaltending (as long as the Avs goalies can stay healthy this year). This seems like two of the most complete rosters, and many were shocked when they didn’t end up meeting during last season’s Playoffs. This is a super series if we’ve ever seen one, especially if the Bolts get Steven Stamkos and Nikita Kucherov healthy for the run.

 

Winnipeg Jets vs. Vegas Golden Knights

This is one of the more underrated rivalries in the league right now. The two teams have only met in the playoffs once, but it was a bitter, bitter series.

Winnipeg is possibly one of the biggest rivalries Vegas has in their young history, aside from the San Jose Sharks, and you can bet both teams would have a little extra steam in their stride if they end up the last two teams standing.

 

Carolina Hurricanes vs. Edmonton Oilers

The Stanley Cup Final rematch 15 years in the making!

Exactly 15 years after Eric Staal and the Carolina Hurricanes won the Stanley Cup, Jordan Staal and the current ‘Canes would have a shot to beat the Oilers again. This time, they’d have Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.

You could argue that both of these teams are better now than they were in 2006, particularly Edmonton. One of the most well-balanced teams in Carolina facing off against two of the game’s brightest stars.

 

Who else would you consider to be a dream matchup? Let us know @BarDown!