2026 NHL Playoff Picture: Key Matchups and Projections

As the 2026 NHL season approaches its conclusion, the playoff picture is becoming clearer. The Dallas Stars, currently positioned as the No. 2 team in the Central Division, are set to face the Minnesota Wild in the first round. Should the Stars advance, they would meet the winner of the matchup between the Colorado Avalanche and the likely second wild card team. In the Pacific Division, the Edmonton Oilers are matched up against the Vegas Golden Knights, with the victor facing the winner of the Anaheim Ducks versus the other wild card team.

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According to projections from Stathletes, the Colorado Avalanche hold the highest probability of reaching the Western Conference finals at 43.0%. They are followed by the Edmonton Oilers at 37.6%, the Minnesota Wild at 31.3%, and the Vegas Golden Knights at 23.0%. The Dallas Stars currently have a 15.9% chance of advancing further in the playoffs.

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Several critical matchups are scheduled, including:

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• San Jose Sharks at Boston Bruins

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• Washington Capitals at Buffalo Sabres

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• Anaheim Ducks at Toronto Maple Leafs

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• Detroit Red Wings at Tampa Bay Lightning

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• Columbus Blue Jackets at Florida Panthers

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• Calgary Flames at New Jersey Devils

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• St. Louis Blues at Carolina Hurricanes

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Additionally, the Dallas Stars will host the Edmonton Oilers, while the Philadelphia Flyers will visit the Minnesota Wild. Other notable games include the New York Rangers at Winnipeg Jets and the Pittsburgh Penguins at Vegas Golden Knights.

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Recent results have seen the Montreal Canadiens defeat the Ottawa Senators 3-2, while the Philadelphia Flyers secured a 4-1 victory over the Washington Capitals. The Dallas Stars also managed a close win against the Vegas Golden Knights, finishing 2-1.

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As the NHL regular season nears its end on April 16, the outcomes of these games will significantly influence playoff seeding and the race for the top draft picks. Teams are not only competing for the Stanley Cup but also positioning themselves for future seasons.

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The NHL has emphasized the importance of these final games, stating, "Every game counts as teams jockey for playoff positioning and the chance to compete for the Stanley Cup." The league continues to monitor the standings closely as the playoffs approach.

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While projections indicate the Avalanche as favorites, some analysts suggest that the Stars could outperform expectations based on their recent form. This discrepancy highlights the unpredictability of playoff outcomes.

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As the NHL playoffs draw near, teams are intensifying their efforts to secure favorable matchups and advance in the postseason.

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