The 2026 Stanley Cup playoffs are delivering early drama with overtime thrillers and unexpected twists across the first round. On Friday, April 24, three pivotal Game 3s highlight the slate, each poised to give the visiting team a 2-1 series lead. Notably, the Utah Mammoth will host their first-ever playoff game at home against the Vegas Golden Knights, marking a historic moment for the expansion franchise.[1][2]
These matchups come amid tight series where underdogs have shown resilience. Leading scorers are emerging from both top seeds and wild cards, setting the stage for intense battles. Fans can catch the action on various networks, with times in eastern time.[3]
Friday’s game 3 slate
Tampa Bay Lightning visit the Montreal Canadiens at 7 p.m. for a series tied 1-1 after two overtime classics. The Lightning stole Game 2 on the road, but Montreal’s home crowd could swing momentum. Expect high-energy play from both sides, with Tampa’s experience clashing against Montreal’s youthful drive.[1]
Next, Vegas Golden Knights head to Utah at 9:30 p.m. on TBS and other channels. The Mammoth, as wild cards, have pushed the Pacific top seed, making this their franchise milestone. Vegas aims to regain control, but Utah’s home debut adds unpredictability. Broadcast options include HBO Max and SN360.[4]
Edmonton Oilers close the night against Anaheim Ducks at 10 p.m. Anaheim shocked with a Game 2 blowout, but Edmonton’s stars could rebound. TNT and truTV carry the game nationally. Each winner here grabs a 2-1 edge, amplifying stakes in these Pacific clashes.[1]
These games underscore the playoffs’ intensity, with travel fatigue potentially factoring in. As detailed in our previous tracker on April 23, recent results have reshaped brackets. Viewers should prepare for late nights filled with skill and grit.
Eastern conference series recaps
Carolina Hurricanes hold a commanding 3-0 lead over Ottawa Senators. Game 1 shutout, a double-OT win in Game 2, and a narrow 2-1 Game 3 victory have the Canes dominating. Taylor Hall leads with 5 points already. Ottawa faces elimination pressure, especially after Jake Sanderson’s injury in Game 3 from a head check and blocked shot, as covered here.
Pittsburgh Penguins trail Philadelphia Flyers 0-3 after a 5-2 loss in Game 3. Philly’s strong starts in Games 1 and 2 set the tone, overwhelming Pittsburgh’s defense. Game 4 odds favor Philadelphia at -120 via BetMGM.
Buffalo Sabres lead Boston Bruins 2-1. Buffalo flipped the script with wins in Games 1 and 3, including a 3-1 Game 3 triumph. David Pastrnak’s 5 points keep Boston alive. Game 4 in Buffalo tilts odds slightly to the home side at -105.
These series highlight underdog surges. Carolina’s depth shines, while Philly’s momentum builds. Pittsburgh must rally desperately.
Central division battles
Colorado Avalanche sweep toward victory with a 3-0 edge on Los Angeles Kings. Close 2-1 wins in Games 1 and 2, followed by 4-2 in Game 3. Colorado heavily favored at -170 for Game 4 per BetMGM.
Dallas Stars lead Minnesota Wild 2-1 after a 4-3 double-OT thriller in Game 3. Minnesota stunned with a 6-1 Game 1, but Dallas responded. Jason Robertson, Wyatt Johnston, and Matt Duchene each have 5 points fueling the Stars. Odds even out with Dallas at +110.
Both series favor the higher seeds now. Colorado’s consistency stands out, while Dallas’ stars are clicking. Minnesota’s early upset fades.
Pacific showdowns preview
Vegas vs. Utah is 1-1 heading into Game 3, with even odds at -110 apiece. Utah’s home playoff debut energizes fans.
Edmonton vs. Anaheim also tied 1-1. Anaheim’s 6-4 Game 2 upset stuns, but Edmonton favored at -133.
These West matchups promise fireworks. Vegas experience meets Utah passion.
Top early playoff performers
Several players tie for the scoring lead with 5 points in 3 games:
- David Pastrnak (Boston Bruins)
- Joel Eriksson Ek (Minnesota Wild)
- Jason Robertson (Dallas Stars)
- Wyatt Johnston (Dallas Stars)
- Matt Duchene (Dallas Stars)
- Taylor Hall (Carolina Hurricanes)[5]
Dallas boasts three in the top group, powering their comeback. Pastrnak’s Bruins output keeps them competitive despite trailing. Eriksson Ek’s Wild play contrasts their series skid.
These leaders exemplify playoff impact. Hall’s Hurricanes role amplifies their dominance. Expect more from this group as series progress.
Betting insights and odds
Game 4 odds reflect series leads:
| Series | Favorite (odds) |
|---|---|
| Carolina vs. Ottawa | Carolina -110 |
| Pittsburgh vs. Philadelphia | Philadelphia -120 |
| Buffalo vs. Boston | Buffalo -105 |
| Tampa Bay vs. Montreal (G3) | Tampa Bay -110 |
| Colorado vs. Los Angeles | Colorado -170 |
| Dallas vs. Minnesota | Minnesota -133 |
| Vegas vs. Utah (G3) | Even -110 |
| Edmonton vs. Anaheim (G3) | Edmonton -133 |
Heavy favorites like Colorado offer low payouts. Closer series like Vegas-Utah tempt value bettors.
Odds via BetMGM capture momentum shifts. Public leans home underdogs in some spots.
As playoffs unfold, these lines will evolve with results.
Friday’s games could eliminate stragglers or extend series. Utah’s home opener adds narrative flair, while sweeps loom in the East and Central. Stars like Pastrnak and Dallas trio will influence outcomes, shaping the second round. Tune in for what promises more playoff magic.[6]
Frequently Asked Questions
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.