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NHL Playoff Race Intensifies: 17 Teams vie for Spots

3/25/2026

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Summary

Teams Battle Playoff Spots

The 2026 NHL postseason race tightens with 24 days left in the season.
In the Eastern Conference, nine teams are within seven points of five playoff spots.
In the Western Conference, eight teams contend for four playoff spots, and the Tampa Bay Lightning and Montreal Canadiens trail the Sabres.
The New York Islanders earned a crucial win to move into the second wild card position.

History

Historical Context

The NHL expanded from six to twelve teams in 1967, marking its first expansion since 1942 and ending the Original Six era. This significant change included franchises like the Los Angeles Kings and Philadelphia Flyers, driven by fears of rival leagues and the desire for lucrative U.S. television contracts. Today, the competitive landscape reflects this pivotal growth, with teams vying for playoff positions.

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Teams Battle Playoff Spots

The 2026 NHL postseason race tightens with 24 days left in the season.
In the Eastern Conference, nine teams are within seven points of five playoff spots.
In the Western Conference, eight teams contend for four playoff spots, and the Tampa Bay Lightning and Montreal Canadiens trail the Sabres.
The New York Islanders earned a crucial win to move into the second wild card position.

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