Story perspectives

2026 NHL Playoff Race Heats Up: Bruins, Red Wings Fight

3/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

The 2026 NHL playoff race intensifies as teams near the regular season's end on April 16.
The Boston Bruins hold the East's first wild-card spot and prepare for a key game against the New Jersey Devils.
The Bruins have a 2-1-0 record against the Buffalo Sabres but struggle against the Tampa Bay Lightning with a 0-1-1 record.
The Detroit Red Wings occupy the second wild-card spot but face difficulties against Carolina and Buffalo.
The Columbus Blue Jackets have a strong record against Buffalo and Tampa Bay, with a 57.0% chance to advance to the second round.

History

Historical Context

The NHL expanded from six to twelve teams in 1967, introducing franchises like the Los Angeles Kings and Philadelphia Flyers. This expansion transformed the playoff format, allowing eight teams to compete for the Stanley Cup, with the Montreal Canadiens winning the championship in 1968. Today, the playoff race remains competitive, reflecting the ongoing evolution of the league since this pivotal change.

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Story summary

The 2026 NHL playoff race intensifies as teams near the regular season's end on April 16.
The Boston Bruins hold the East's first wild-card spot and prepare for a key game against the New Jersey Devils.
The Bruins have a 2-1-0 record against the Buffalo Sabres but struggle against the Tampa Bay Lightning with a 0-1-1 record.
The Detroit Red Wings occupy the second wild-card spot but face difficulties against Carolina and Buffalo.
The Columbus Blue Jackets have a strong record against Buffalo and Tampa Bay, with a 57.0% chance to advance to the second round.

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