Underrated performers in the 2026 NHL playoffs so far

The Stanley Cup playoffs always deliver surprises, with depth players rising to the occasion on hockey’s biggest stage. While stars grab headlines, it’s the secondary contributors who often decide series outcomes during this grueling tournament. Through the early rounds of the 2026 playoffs, several unsung heroes have stepped up, providing crucial scoring and momentum shifts.

Teams relying solely on top lines rarely go far, and this postseason proves the point. From dominant lines easing pressure on superstars to bottom-six forwards delivering game-winners, these performers embody playoff magic. Here’s a look at five standout underrated contributors so far.

Carolina Hurricanes’ second line

The Carolina Hurricanes’ second line of Jackson Blake, Logan Stankoven and Taylor Hall has emerged as the team’s top producers through six games. This trio has combined for 11 goals and 24 points, leading the Hurricanes in scoring and easing the burden on Sebastian Aho and Seth Jarvis. Their chemistry has been electric, generating high-danger chances and controlling play at even strength.

Hall, a veteran addition, scored the overtime winner in Game 2 against the Philadelphia Flyers, with Blake assisting on the play. Stankoven has notched two game-winning goals, while Hall and Blake each have one. This secondary scoring has been vital for Carolina, a team long criticized for lacking depth in past postseasons. As detailed in our 2026 Stanley Cup playoffs second round recap, their production has fueled sweeps and strong starts.

Both Hall and Blake have already surpassed their point totals from last year’s extended run, when Carolina played 15 games. Stankoven’s speed and finishing touch have taken pressure off the top six. Coach Rod Brind’Amour praised the line post-Game 3: “We’re feeling good,” Blake said, echoing the group’s confidence.

• Logan Stankoven: 4 goals, including 2 GWGs
• Taylor Hall: Multiple GWG contributions, OT heroics
• Jackson Blake: Key assists, already exceeding prior playoffs

If this pace holds, the Hurricanes could finally reach their first Stanley Cup Final since 2006. Their balance makes them a formidable Eastern Conference threat. For more on Carolina’s roster, visit the team page.

Brett Howden’s surprising goal surge for Vegas

Brett Howden tops the Vegas Golden Knights in goals with five in eight playoff games, outpacing stars like Jack Eichel and Mark Stone. The 28-year-old left winger nearly matched his regular-season total of 12 goals in 58 games, showcasing unexpected postseason prowess. Playing alongside Mitch Marner and Stone, Howden extended a four-game goal streak, including a double-overtime winner in Game 5 against the Utah Mammoth.

Vegas opened scoring in their second-round series against the Anaheim Ducks thanks to a Marner feed to Howden. The Knights’ Game 2 loss coincided with Howden being shut out, underscoring his impact. At $2.5 million per year through four more seasons, his production from a player with a career-high of 40 regular-season points is a bargain.

Howden’s gritty style fits Vegas’ playoff identity, chipping in timely tallies amid the chaos. He’s thrived in high-leverage situations, converting chances others might miss. This emergence bolsters a lineup already deep with Pavel Dorofeyev’s 37 regular-season goals.

His goals have come at even strength and in clutch moments, preventing overreliance on power plays. Vegas fans have dubbed him “Mr. Clutch” on social media. Continued output could propel the Golden Knights deep into the West.

Ryan Poehling’s upset heroics with Anaheim

Anaheim Ducks center Ryan Poehling was pivotal in their first-round upset over the Edmonton Oilers, tying for the team lead with four goals alongside Cutter Gauthier. His overtime tally in Game 4—a controversial redirect off Darnell Nurse—gave Anaheim a 3-1 series lead, sealing momentum despite inconclusive video review. Poehling also scored twice in Game 2 and opened scoring in the clincher.

The third-line pivot’s regular-season career-high of 36 points at a $1.9 million cap hit positions him for a raise. His forechecking and net-front presence disrupted Edmonton’s rhythm. Poehling’s goals were gritty deflections and quick releases, embodying Ducks’ underdog tenacity.

Anaheim’s success hinged on such depth, with Poehling thriving against top competition. His series elevated a young roster past a powerhouse. Now in round two, his role expands against Vegas.

• Game 2: Two goals
• Game 4: OT game-winner (controversial)
• Game 6: Series opener

Poehling’s emergence highlights playoff unpredictability. Ducks fans chant his name louder now. For Anaheim updates, see the latest coverage.

Ryan Hartman’s steady climb for Minnesota

Minnesota Wild center Ryan Hartman has six points in eight games, tying for fifth on the team despite a modest 43-point regular season in 76 games. The 31-year-old veteran lines up with Kirill Kaprizov and Mats Zuccarello, stepping up on the first power-play unit with Joel Eriksson Ek injured. Hartman scored a gritty net-front goal in Game 1 of the second round against Colorado.

His four points in five recent games show growing impact. Hartman’s physicality drives to the net, creating chaos for Avalanche defenders. Minnesota needs his edge to counter Colorado’s speed.

Hartman’s playoff role has expanded organically, from checking line to top-six contributor. His faceoff wins and hits add intangibles. The Wild trail but Hartman’s persistence offers hope.

He embodies the “big dogs” mindset praised by coaches. If he sustains this, Minnesota stays competitive. Check our NHL playoff predictions for round two for series outlook.

Bowen Byram anchors Buffalo’s defense

Buffalo Sabres defenseman Bowen Byram ties for third in team playoff points through seven games, with four goals matching Cale Makar for the NHL’s top among blueliners. The 2019 fourth-overall pick follows a career-best 42 points in 82 regular-season games. Averaging 22:38 ice time—the team’s second-highest—Byram boasts a plus-7 rating.

As a second-pair stalwart, Byram’s offensive flair pairs with shutdown defense. His goals stem from point blasts and rushes, stretching opponents. Buffalo’s blueline strength relies on him amid forward pressure.

Byram’s rhythm has silenced doubters, proving trade value. He’s blocked shots, won puck battles and quarterbacked power plays. The Sabres’ run hinges on his consistency.

• 4 goals (tied NHL D lead)
• 22:38 ATOI
• +7 rating (team high)

Young and dynamic, Byram could define Buffalo’s ceiling. His play evokes past Cup defensemen.

These performers prove depth wins Cups. As playoffs intensify—check current standings—watch if they sustain output. Secondary stars could crown champions, with Vegas and Carolina best positioned now. Expect more surprises ahead.