What happened: ESPN analysts PK Subban and Mark Messier expressed their belief that the 2026 Stanley Cup Final will not conclude in Game 6. Both experts predicted that the series will require a seventh game to determine a champion as the matchup heads to a critical juncture.
Why it matters: The Carolina Hurricanes currently lead the series 3-2 and are one win away from their first title since 2006. A victory by Vegas would shift the momentum and force a winner-take-all Game 7 in Raleigh, where Jordan Staal and the Hurricanes would have one final home-ice advantage.
By the numbers: Carolina leads series 3-2. Jordan Staal: 5 goals in 5 games (tied NHL Final record). Brandon Bussi: 2-0 record since taking over as starter in Game 3.
What to watch: Fans can watch Game 6 on ABC and the ESPN App to see if the series ends tonight or moves to a Game 7 on June 17.