The second round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs delivered intense competition across both conferences, with several series going the distance and showcasing the depth of this year’s playoff field. Teams battled through physical play, overtime thrillers, and dramatic comebacks as they fought for a spot in the conference finals.
Four series unfolded over the past week and a half, resulting in three sweeps or near-sweeps alongside one epic seven-game showdown. The outcomes set up intriguing matchups ahead while highlighting standout performances from key players and goaltenders.
Eastern Conference Matchups
Montreal Canadiens vs. Buffalo Sabres
The Montreal Canadiens outlasted the Buffalo Sabres in a grueling seven-game series that tested both clubs to their limits. Montreal secured the victory 4-3, advancing after a thrilling overtime win in Game 7.
- Game 1: Montreal 2 at Buffalo 4
- Game 2: Montreal 5 at Buffalo 1
- Game 3: Buffalo 2 at Montreal 6
- Game 4: Buffalo 3 at Montreal 2
- Game 5: Montreal 6 at Buffalo 3
- Game 6: Buffalo 8 at Montreal 3
- Game 7: Montreal 3 at Buffalo 2 (OT)
Buffalo showed resilience with high-scoring outbursts, but Montreal’s ability to respond in critical moments proved decisive. The series featured strong goaltending shifts and timely scoring from Montreal’s top lines.
Philadelphia Flyers vs. Carolina Hurricanes
The Carolina Hurricanes dominated the Philadelphia Flyers in a clean four-game sweep, winning the series 4-0. Carolina’s defensive structure and timely offense overwhelmed their opponents from the opening puck drop.
- Game 1: Carolina 3, Philadelphia 0
- Game 2: Philadelphia 2 at Carolina 3
- Game 3: Carolina 4 at Philadelphia 1
- Game 4: Carolina 3 at Philadelphia 2 (OT)
Philadelphia competed hard in several contests but could not break through Carolina’s stingy defense. The Hurricanes now carry strong momentum into the next stage of the playoffs.
Western Conference Matchups
Minnesota Wild vs. Colorado Avalanche
The Colorado Avalanche defeated the Minnesota Wild 4-1, advancing with a combination of offensive firepower and solid goaltending. Minnesota pushed hard in a couple of games but ultimately fell short against Colorado’s depth.
- Game 1: Minnesota 6 at Colorado 9
- Game 2: Minnesota 2 at Colorado 5
- Game 3: Colorado 1 at Minnesota 5
- Game 4: Colorado 5 at Minnesota 2
- Game 5: Minnesota 3 at Colorado 4 (OT)
The high-scoring opener set the tone for a series filled with end-to-end action. Colorado’s experience in playoff situations helped them close out the series efficiently despite Minnesota’s resistance.
Anaheim Ducks vs. Vegas Golden Knights
The Vegas Golden Knights prevailed over the Anaheim Ducks 4-2, earning their ticket to the conference finals. Vegas leaned on strong special teams and clutch performances to overcome a resilient Anaheim squad.
- Game 1: Anaheim 1 at Vegas 3
- Game 2: Anaheim 3 at Vegas 1
- Game 3: Vegas 6 at Anaheim 2
- Game 4: Vegas 3 at Anaheim 4
- Game 5: Anaheim 2 at Vegas 3 (OT)
- Game 6: Vegas 5 at Anaheim 1
Anaheim forced overtime in key moments and stole a couple of games, but Vegas maintained composure down the stretch. The series highlighted the Golden Knights’ ability to elevate their game when it mattered most.
The second round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs has narrowed the field to four teams ready for conference final battles. With momentum on their sides, the advancing clubs now turn their focus toward claiming the ultimate prize.
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Par Mike Jonderson
Mike Jonderson is a passionate hockey analyst and expert in advanced NHL statistics. A former college player and mathematics graduate, he combines his understanding of the game with technical expertise to develop innovative predictive models and contribute to the evolution of modern hockey analytics.