2026 NHL playoffs second round schedule

The NHL has unveiled the schedule for the second round of the 2026 Stanley Cup playoffs, providing fans with clear dates and times even as some first-round series wrap up. This early release ensures stability for broadcasts and travel, regardless of lingering outcomes like the Atlantic division clash between the Tampa Bay Lightning and Montreal Canadiens. Four exciting matchups await: Buffalo Sabres facing the Lightning or Canadiens in the Atlantic, Carolina Hurricanes versus Philadelphia Flyers in the Metropolitan, Colorado Avalanche taking on Minnesota Wild in the Central, and Vegas Golden Knights against Anaheim Ducks in the Pacific. All times are in Eastern Time and subject to change.[1][2]

These series promise intense rivalries and high-stakes hockey, with top seeds hosting early games. National coverage spans ESPN, TNT, ABC, and Canadian networks like Sportsnet, CBC, and TVAS. Fans can follow along on streaming platforms such as HBO Max and SN Now.

Buffalo Sabres vs Tampa Bay Lightning or Montreal Canadiens

The Atlantic division second-round series pits the top-seeded Buffalo Sabres against either the second-seeded Tampa Bay Lightning or third-seeded Montreal Canadiens, depending on the outcome of their ongoing first-round battle. Buffalo earned home-ice advantage as the A1 seed after a strong regular season. Game 2 shifts to Buffalo on Friday, May 8, at 7 p.m., highlighting the Sabres’ home dominance.

This matchup carries historical weight, with Buffalo seeking to build on recent playoff momentum. The Lightning, two-time recent champions, bring veteran savvy led by stars like Nikita Kucherov. Meanwhile, Montreal’s young core could upset if they advance, echoing their surprising 2021 run. Expect physical play and goaltending duels to define early games.

Game 3 heads to the road for Buffalo on Sunday, May 10, at 7 p.m., broadcast on ESPN. Subsequent games follow a standard best-of-seven format, with times TBD for most after Game 2. Coverage includes TNT, truTV, HBO Max, SN, CBC, and TVAS for Game 2.

The Sabres’ depth and speed could overwhelm, but Tampa’s experience or Montreal’s grit poses threats. Analysts predict a long series, potentially going six or seven games. For the full playoff bracket, visit the official NHL playoffs page.[3]

Carolina Hurricanes vs Philadelphia Flyers

Carolina Hurricanes, the Metropolitan Division’s top seed, host the Philadelphia Flyers starting with Game 2 on Monday, May 4, at 7 p.m. The Hurricanes advanced past Ottawa in the first round, showcasing their elite defense and forecheck. Philadelphia upset Pittsburgh, riding goaltending and timely scoring.

This rivalry renews playoff intensity, last meeting in 2012. Carolina’s Frederik Andersen has been lights-out, while Philly’s young guns like Matvei Michkov aim to shine. Game 3 shifts to Philadelphia on Thursday, May 7, at 8 p.m. on TNT networks.

Broadcasts feature ESPN for early games, transitioning to TNT for road tilts. Canadian viewers get SN, CBC, and TVAS coverage throughout.

Experts favor Carolina in six, but Philly’s momentum could force a Game 7. Key matchups in special teams will decide the series.

Colorado Avalanche vs Minnesota Wild

The Central division showdown opens with Game 1: Minnesota at Colorado on Sunday, May 3, at 9 p.m. on TNT. Colorado, the top seed, dispatched Los Angeles, leaning on Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar. Minnesota upset Dallas, with Kirill Kaprizov leading the charge.

These border rivals know each other well from regular-season battles. Game 2 follows Tuesday, May 5, at 8 p.m. on ESPN. Colorado’s home altitude advantage looms large early.

Later games shift to Minnesota starting Game 3 on Saturday, May 9, at 9 p.m. Broadcasters include SN variants, CBC, OMNI, and TVAS.

Colorado’s star power edges them as favorites, but Minnesota’s structure could extend the series. Watch for high-event hockey.

Vegas Golden Knights vs Anaheim Ducks

Pacific leaders Vegas host Anaheim Ducks for Game 1 on Monday, May 4, at 9:30 p.m. on ESPN. Vegas advanced over Utah Mammoth, with Jack Eichel driving the offense. Anaheim stunned Edmonton, fueled by Trevor Zegras and Leo Carlsson.

This young Ducks squad challenges Vegas’s playoff pedigree. Game 2 Wednesday, May 6, at 9:30 p.m. on TNT. Vegas aims to repeat as contenders.

Game 3 heads south Friday, May 8, at 9:30 p.m. Coverage spans ESPN, TNT, SN360, and TVAS.

Vegas holds the edge, but Anaheim’s speed could surprise. A deep run here boosts both franchises.

The second round sets the stage for conference finals, with winners earning rest or momentum. Fans should mark calendars and subscribe for updates—check recent NHL playoffs trackers for first-round recaps.[4] Expect drama as these series unfold toward the Stanley Cup.