“Dark Horse Stanley Cup Playoff Heroes: Unsung Names to Watch”

As the NHL season heats up, it’s never too early to start thinking about the playoffs. While some teams are clear favorites to make a deep run, there are always a few dark horses that could surprise everyone and become the unlikely heroes of the postseason. In this article, we will take a look at one potential surprise hero for each of the 16 teams that are poised to make the 2023 Stanley Cup playoffs. These players may not be the biggest stars or names in the league, but they could be the X-factor that propels their team to a championship. Let’s dive in and see who could be the next unlikely playoff hero.


The Stanley Cup playoffs have always been a stage for unexpected heroes to emerge. While the superstars are expected to shine, it is often unsung players who make a significant impact, etching their names in history. Last year, Artturi Lehkonen and Nick Paul were two such unlikely heroes who made important contributions to their respective teams, the Colorado Avalanche and Tampa Bay Lightning. As the playoffs approach this year, there are several dark horses from each of the 16 franchises who could surprise fans with their performances.

For the Boston Bruins, Taylor Hall’s return from injury could be crucial, as he adds depth to a formidable lineup. In Carolina, Jesperi Kotkaniemi’s recent form could help him make a big impact, while Bowen Byram could be an X-factor for the Colorado Avalanche. Max Domi could be a breakout star for the Dallas Stars, while Klim Kostin, with his physical play, could prove to be a valuable asset for the Edmonton Oilers. Radko Gudas is a force to be reckoned with for the Florida Panthers and could prove to be a game-changer, while Vladislav Gavrikov’s solid defensive play could make the difference for the Los Angeles Kings. For the Minnesota Wild, Frederick Gaudreau’s combination of speed, skill, and versatility makes him a potential dark horse.

Finally, Erik Haula’s experience and playoff prowess could be invaluable for the New Jersey Devils. As the playoffs begin, these unsung heroes may well prove to be crucial factors in determining the eventual winner of the Stanley Cup.


As we eagerly wait for the 2023 NHL playoffs, it’s always exciting to anticipate the emergence of unexpected heroes that could lead their teams to glory. In this article, we’ve highlighted 16 dark horses who could shock everyone with their breakout performances in the playoffs. While some may seem unlikely, history has shown that the playoffs are a different animal altogether, and anything can happen. Whether it’s a seasoned veteran or a promising rookie, all these players have the potential to make an impact on their team’s fortunes. We can only wait and see who will rise up as the surprise hero of the 2023 Stanley Cup playoffs.