A fun topic that fans bring up is talking about teams that they think have zero chance. The Athletic asked NHL fans which teams they are the most confident will not win a Stanley Cup before 2036.

There were a number of Canadian teams mentioned as well as some original 6 teams. Either way, the fans did a pretty good job in their selections, so let’s take a deeper look at some.

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Toronto Maple Leafs

Jun 26, 2026; Buffalo, New York, USA; Gavin McKenna puts on a sweater beside NHL commissioner Gary Bettman and singer Justin Bieber after being selected with the first pick in the first round of the 2026 NHL Draft by the Toronto Maple Leafs at KeyBank Center. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images

The Toronto Maple Leafs have faced challenges with their star players and management decisions. Parting ways with Mitch Marner has raised eyebrows, particularly after his impressive playoff performance with the Vegas Knights.

The team recently dismissed their general manager, Brad Treliving, whose time with the organization was less than successful. As their core ages, the addition of Gavin McKenna could inject some much-needed energy into the lineup, but the question remains: will it be sufficient to turn their fortunes around?

Vancouver Canucks

The Canucks have struggled to retain key players on their roster. Recently, they traded Quinn Hughes to the Minnesota Wild and JT Miller to the New York Rangers, both of whom were significant contributors to the team.

Quinn Hughes is regarded as one of the top defensemen in the league, and losing such a crucial asset can hinder a team’s progress, leading to a cycle of rebuilding rather than competing for a Stanley Cup.

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Chicago Blackhawks

Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Chicago Blackhawks center Connor Bedard (98) looks on during the third period against the Minnesota Wild at Xcel Energy Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images

The issue in Chicago is that there isn’t enough talent around the franchise player Connor Bedard. Bedard is sidelined due to injury, but even with him in the lineup, it isn’t enough.

It looks like they have a star in the making with Spencer Knight in goal; the offense needs another two really good players, and in their division it will be tough to compete for years to come unless they add talent.

New York Rangers

The New York Rangers went from back-to-back Eastern Conference appearances to chasing a top overall draft pick. This year they selected Albert Smits, who, according to scouts, is the most NHL-ready defenseman. Chris Drury is wasting no time acquiring players in hopes of making a push for the Stanley Cup.

Mika Zibanejad is in his 30s; Igor Shesterkin and Adam Fox are getting older too. The Rangers have some young pieces, but the East is difficult with teams like Carolina, Washington, Florida, and Tampa Bay in the way. 

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