Rankings for the NHL playoffs: Who will take home the Presidents' Trophy?

As previously mentioned, winning the Presidents’ Trophy doesn’t guarantee a Stanley Cup victory, as history shows. Only eight teams have managed to clinch both the regular-season points race and the Cup in the same season, with the most recent being the Chicago Blackhawks in the shortened 2012-13 season.

However, winning the Presidents’ Trophy is still a notable achievement, granting the team home-ice advantage throughout the postseason.

So, who’s leading the race this season?

After recent victories, the New York Rangers and Dallas Stars remain at the forefront. The Rangers have amassed 112 points and 42 regulation wins in 81 games. Their upcoming game against the Ottawa Senators could secure the Presidents’ Trophy with any type of win.

The Stars are close behind with 111 points and 40 regulation wins in 81 games. Their final game against the St. Louis Blues on Wednesday could potentially allow them to overtake the Rangers, depending on the outcome of the Rangers’ game.

The Carolina Hurricanes, with 109 points and 43 regulation wins in 80 games, are also in contention. Their upcoming matches against the Chicago Blackhawks and the Columbus Blue Jackets offer opportunities to solidify their position, especially if the Rangers falter against the Senators.

Similarly, the Boston Bruins, with 109 points and 36 regulation wins, are hoping for a Rangers loss to stay in the running. They face the Washington Capitals and the Senators in their remaining games, needing to win both and hoping for favorable outcomes from other contenders.

As the regular season draws to a close, attention shifts to the playoff races and the teams vying for positions in the NHL draft lottery.