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Bruins, Mammoth Aim for Wild Card Spots in NHL

4/15/2026

44 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Bruins Clinch Playoff

In the 2025-26 NHL season, the Boston Bruins can clinch the top wild card in the Eastern Conference with a win over the New Jersey Devils.
The Bruins' win would send the Ottawa Senators to face the Carolina Hurricanes.
In the Western Conference, the Utah Mammoth can clinch the first wild card by beating the Winnipeg Jets.
Rookie Matthew Schaefer of the New York Islanders aims to break the rookie blueliner goal record.

History

Historical Context

The NHL expanded from six to twelve teams in 1967, adding franchises like the Los Angeles Kings and Philadelphia Flyers, marking the end of the Original Six era. This expansion aimed to counter competition from rival leagues and secure lucrative U.S. television contracts. Today, teams like the Boston Bruins and New Jersey Devils reflect the competitive landscape established during this pivotal growth period.

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Bruins Clinch Playoff

In the 2025-26 NHL season, the Boston Bruins can clinch the top wild card in the Eastern Conference with a win over the New Jersey Devils.
The Bruins' win would send the Ottawa Senators to face the Carolina Hurricanes.
In the Western Conference, the Utah Mammoth can clinch the first wild card by beating the Winnipeg Jets.
Rookie Matthew Schaefer of the New York Islanders aims to break the rookie blueliner goal record.

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