NHL Eastern Conference preview, storylines: Panthers aim to three-peat, Hurricanes look to make Cup run

The NHL Eastern Conference preview highlights several key storylines for the upcoming season. The Florida Panthers are the defending champions and aim to become the first team to win three straight Stanley Cups since the early 1980s. The Carolina Hurricanes, who had a dominant regular season last year, are looking to make a deep playoff run and challenge for the Cup. The Boston Bruins, with the return of Brad Marchand and the emergence of young talent, are expected to be a strong contender. The Tampa Bay Lightning, despite losing some key players, are still considered a top team in the conference. The Toronto Maple Leafs, with their talented core, will be eager to finally break through and win a playoff series. The New York Rangers, who made a surprising run to the Eastern Conference Finals, are looking to build on that success. The New Jersey Devils, with the addition of Timo Meier, have a talented roster that could surprise some teams. Overall, the Eastern Conference promises to be highly competitive, with several teams vying for a chance to lift the Stanley Cup.