The 2025 NHL Stanley Cup playoffs have already delivered plenty of intense action, with each of the Western Conference’s first-round series tied at two games apiece after Sunday’s games. As we move forward in the postseason, it’s time to reassess the momentum in these matchups and whether our initial predictions are holding up. While predictions can always shift based on the unfolding drama, here’s an updated look at the current state of each series and how the momentum has impacted the predictions.
Winnipeg Jets (C1) vs. St. Louis Blues (WC2)
Where’s The Momentum?
In St. Louis’ favor.
Does That Change Our Prediction of Jets Winning in Six Games?
Yes.
What’s Our Prediction Now?
Blues in seven games.
Why?
The Jets held onto home-ice advantage with narrow wins at home to start the series, but the Blues have responded forcefully. After winning 7-2 in Game 3 and then 5-1 in Game 4, St. Louis has outscored Winnipeg 12-3 in the past two games. Jets goalie Connor Hellebuyck has struggled with a 4.24 GAA and .817 SV%, leaving the Jets vulnerable. While Winnipeg still has home-ice advantage, St. Louis seems poised to steal a game in Winnipeg and could close out the series in Game 7.
Vegas Golden Knights (P1) vs. Minnesota Wild (WC1)
Where’s The Momentum?
In Vegas’ favor.
Does That Change Our Prediction of Golden Knights Winning in Five Games?
Yes.
What’s Our Prediction Now?
Golden Knights in six games.
Why?
The Wild made a strong push with a 5-2 win in both Games 2 and 3, stealing home-ice advantage temporarily, but Vegas responded with a 4-3 overtime win in Game 4. Despite missing key players like Mark Stone and Jack Eichel stepping up big, the Golden Knights have proven their resilience. We still see Vegas winning the series, with Game 5 providing a chance to take the lead and Game 6 closing out Minnesota. The Golden Knights’ depth is simply too much for the Wild to overcome.
Dallas Stars (C2) vs. Colorado Avalanche (C3)
Where’s The Momentum?
In Colorado’s favor.
Does That Change Our Prediction of Avalanche Winning in Seven Games?
No.
What’s Our Prediction Now?
Avalanche in seven games.
Why?
The Stars managed to steal two games after losing Game 1, but Colorado regained control with a dominant 4-0 victory in Game 4, outshooting Dallas 48-23. Without key players like Miro Heiskanen and Jason Robertson, the Stars are at a disadvantage against the deep and talented Avalanche squad. The Avs have already proven they can win on the road, and with their superior roster, we expect them to take two of the next three games to eliminate Dallas.
Los Angeles Kings (P2) vs. Edmonton Oilers (P3)
Where’s The Momentum?
In Edmonton’s favor.
Does That Change Our Prediction of Kings Winning in Six Games?
Yes.
What’s Our Prediction Now?
Kings in seven games.
Why?
The Kings’ offense exploded early in the series, scoring six goals in both Games 1 and 2. But the Oilers bounced back, taking a 7-4 victory in Game 3 and winning Game 4 to tie the series. Despite Edmonton’s improved play in Games 3 and 4, the Kings still have the home-ice advantage, which could make the difference. With key defenseman Mattias Ekholm out of the lineup for Edmonton, the Kings’ solid home performance might just push them over the top, but it may take an additional game to eliminate the Oilers.
The momentum in these series has shifted in some unexpected ways, particularly with teams like St. Louis and Edmonton making strong comebacks. While the original predictions might have been based on early-season form, the unpredictable nature of the playoffs has forced these educated guesses to evolve. With every game still offering new twists, these series are bound to provide plenty of drama before we know who will move on to the next round.
