The NHL playoffs have delivered early drama, with some teams packing up early and others finding their stride. Ottawa Senators and Los Angeles Kings were eliminated over the weekend, swept in four games each by Carolina Hurricanes and an unnamed opponent, respectively. Players like Tim Stutzle and Anze Kopitar went cold at the worst possible time, underscoring how offensive droughts can end seasons abruptly.[1]
Since April 20, a select group of players has separated itself from the pack. Anaheim Ducks defenseman Jackson LaCombe leads the playoffs in points and assists, outpacing Edmonton Oilers stars Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid. This surge has helped Anaheim surprise the Oilers in their first-round series.[2]
Matt Duchene’s hot streak powers Dallas Stars
Matt Duchene has been a revelation for the Dallas Stars in the playoffs. The 35-year-old center tallied five assists and seven points in three games last week, placing him among the league’s top performers. After a quiet Game 1 against the Minnesota Wild, he exploded with at least two points in each of the next three outings.[3]
Duchene’s regular season was underwhelming, with just 16 goals and 45 points in 57 games following a strong 30-goal, 82-point campaign in 2024-25. Playoffs have brought out his best, building on 44 points in 73 career postseason games. His playmaking has been crucial as Dallas battles to regain series momentum.
The Stars held a 2-1 lead before Minnesota evened it on Saturday. Duchene’s production highlights Dallas’s depth, with five players averaging at least a point per game. For the team to advance, his continued impact alongside the top line will be essential.
As the Edmonton Oilers prepared for playoffs earlier this season, Stars fans hoped for secondary scoring. Duchene has delivered, tying up games and creating chances. His veteran presence stabilizes a lineup facing a resilient Wild squad.
Looking ahead, Duchene’s form could define Dallas’s run. In a best-of-three scenario now, every shift counts. His resurgence shows playoffs often unlock potential dormant in the regular season.
Brady Tkachuk’s cold streak sinks Ottawa Senators
Brady Tkachuk endured a nightmare first round for the Ottawa Senators. The left winger recorded zero points across four games against the Carolina Hurricanes, including three last week. Ottawa’s sweep was partly due to his lack of production despite nine shots on net.
Tkachuk finished the series tied for the team-worst minus-4 rating. This plummeted from last season’s strong playoff start, where he notched four goals and seven points in six games. The pressure mounts for him heading into next year.
Carolina proved a formidable foe, but Ottawa needed more from its captain. Tkachuk’s struggles symbolized the team’s offensive woes. Fans and analysts alike expect atonement in 2027 playoffs.
The Senators’ elimination leaves questions about roster tweaks. Tkachuk knows the expectations won’t lighten. Building chemistry and consistency will be key over the summer.
Jackson LaCombe dominates for Anaheim Ducks
Jackson LaCombe has emerged as the NHL’s top playoff performer. The 25-year-old Ducks defenseman leads in points and assists with eight points, including seven helpers, over four games last week. He edges Draisaitl by one point and doubles McDavid’s four.[4]
LaCombe’s regular season breakout saw 48 assists and 58 points in 82 games, a 15-point jump from 2024-25. In playoffs, he’s a plus-5 with multi-point games in Anaheim’s three wins over Edmonton. His shutdown defense has neutralized Oilers stars, particularly McDavid.[5]
Averaging 26:42 ice time, he logged 29:54 in Sunday’s overtime victory. LaCombe excels at both ends, fueling Anaheim’s upset bid. The Ducks lead the series, surprising many.
As detailed in Ducks previews from earlier, young talent like LaCombe was poised for impact. His poise under pressure validates that hype.
Anaheim’s success hinges on sustaining this. LaCombe’s two-way game sets a tone. If he maintains this, the Ducks could steal the series.
Jamie Benn’s struggles burden Dallas Stars
Jamie Benn has been ice-cold for the Dallas Stars. The 36-year-old left winger has zero points and a minus-4 rating in four games against Minnesota. He’s managed just three shots since April 20 and taken three minor penalties last week.
Dallas boasts strong top-line scoring, but depth players like Benn have vanished. His penalties hurt in tight games. At this stage, secondary production is vital.
The series now sits at 2-2 after Minnesota’s Saturday win. Benn’s form raises questions about his future. Time may be running short in his NHL career.
Stars need him to step up in the best-of-three. Unacceptable output so far demands change. Teammates carry the load, but balance is key.
Alex Lyon sparks Buffalo Sabres
Alex Lyon has been Buffalo’s playoff hero. The 33-year-old goalie boasts a .961 save percentage and 0.89 GAA in two starts and three appearances against the Boston Bruins last week. He entered as a reliever but seized the starter role.
In Game 3, Lyon stopped 24 of 25 shots in a 3-1 win. Sunday’s 6-1 rout saw him allow one goal on 24 shots. His timely saves swung momentum.[6]
With only four prior playoff games, Lyon’s poise shines. Buffalo leads the series, crediting his high-stakes play. Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen yielded the net, but Lyon delivered.
The Sabres shocked Boston, gaining confidence. Lyon’s emergence bolsters their upset potential.
These playoffs highlight volatility. Hot streaks like LaCombe’s and Lyon’s propel underdogs, while cold spells doom veterans.
As series tighten, depth and adjustments decide fates. Watch for Duchene and LaCombe to sustain leads, and Benn, Tkachuk to rebound next year. The chase for the Cup intensifies.
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.