Why NHL playoff seeding stays frozen despite mounting calls for 1-8 format
Despite player pressure, Bettman keeps the NHL playoff format unchanged for 2027.
153 articles with this tag
Stay informed about playoffs in the NHL with comprehensive coverage, expert analysis, and the latest news. Our team provides in-depth insights into all aspects of playoffs in professional hockey.
From breaking news to detailed analysis, we cover the stories, statistics, and developments that matter. Whether you're a casual fan or a dedicated hockey enthusiast, this resource provides valuable information about playoffs.
Our expert analysts break down the key aspects, trends, and implications related to playoffs, helping you stay informed and engaged with the NHL.
Despite player pressure, Bettman keeps the NHL playoff format unchanged for 2027.
Flyers face another season without a true No. 1 center despite record cap space following the failed Carlsson offer sheet.
Marner’s playoff heroics ended abruptly in the 2026 Stanley Cup Final’s final three games.
Columbus leads the remaining NHL playoff-drought teams in proximity to contention.
Rookie goaltender Brandon Bussi made an immediate impact in relief during the Hurricanes' historic Game 3 rally.
Carter Hart's playoff numbers revived his career and sent Vegas to the Stanley Cup final.
Ehlers' transition to Carolina has produced career highs and positioned the Hurricanes one win from the Stanley Cup final.
Habs fans revive 1993 Cup memories through playoff tattoos at Adrenaline Tattoos.
After the Presidents' Trophy and Western final sweep, the Avalanche weigh retaining Bednar and MacFarland while preparing trades for 2026-27.
Akhtyamov’s steady netminding has powered Toronto’s improbable postseason surge.
Ottawa Senators should prioritize dynamic winger Jordan Kyrou over center Robert Thomas from the rebuilding St. Louis Blues to boost playoff offense.
The Montreal Canadiens' top forwards, including Suzuki, Caufield, Slafkovsky, and Demidov, are surging at the perfect time ahead of Game 6 vs. the Buffalo Sabres.
The Minnesota Wild's outlook as a 2027 Stanley Cup contender, leveraging playoff momentum, elite defense led by Quinn Hughes, and strategic offseason moves.
The Oilers grapple with leaks in coaching, defense, and goaltending following their disappointing playoff loss, putting GM Stan Bowman under intense pressure entering the 2026 offseason.
Toronto Maple Leafs fire head coach Craig Berube just 10 days after new GM hire, part of a major organizational reset following a disappointing season.
NHL suspends Bruins' Charlie McAvoy for six games after slashing Sabres' Zach Benson in Game 6 playoff loss.
The Buffalo Sabres evened their second-round series against the Montreal Canadiens at 2-2 with a 3-2 victory in Game 4, powered by Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen's 28 saves.
Our ranking of the 2026 Jim Gregory GM of the Year finalists: 1. Chris MacFarland (Avalanche), 2. Bill Guerin (Wild), 3. Pat Verbeek (Ducks).
Breaking down potential 2026 Stanley Cup finals, led by Carolina Hurricanes vs Colorado Avalanche at +100 odds, with value plays and playoff paths.
Martin St-Louis and Zachary Bolduc share how Montreal's legendary playoff atmosphere at the Bell Centre feels like a lifelong dream realized amid traditions and fan fervor.
Bruins eye blue line reinforcements and secondary scoring after early playoff exit; Penguins weigh pivotal UFA decisions amid cap constraints.
Oilers' goaltending under scrutiny after early playoff exit; Bowman eyes trades for Jarry, Ingram UFAs, and targets like Binnington.
The Flyers' chronic power-play struggles, converting just 3 of 36 chances, doomed their surprising playoff run in a sweep by the Hurricanes.
NHL teams like Penguins, Capitals, and Utah make key off-season signings while playoff squads deal with injuries in Dallas, Colorado, Buffalo, and Minnesota.
Avalanche and Hurricanes are 6-0 in playoffs, favorites for Cup, potential for rare final between conference leaders like 2001.
Speculation grows on Quinn Hughes' future with the Wild as insider Elliotte Friedman forecasts a three-year extension amid playoff run.
NHL rumor roundup covering Penguins' Evgeni Malkin contract talks and Bruins' pursuit of Brady Tkachuk and other roster improvements post-playoffs.
The Kings, Penguins, and Bruins face roster challenges and key departures that could lead to missing the 2027 playoffs unless they make bold offseason moves.
The Lightning's repeated first-round exits spotlight an aging core and spark Kucherov trade speculation in a pivotal offseason.
Kelly Pannek's record-breaking season propels Minnesota Frost to Game 1 playoff win over Montreal, eyeing third straight Walter Cup.
NHL Department of Player Safety suspends Ottawa Senators' Ridly Greig for two games after a sucker punch on Carolina Hurricanes' Sean Walker in playoffs.
Breaking down the pivotal goaltending battle between Buffalo's Alex Lyon and Montreal's Jakub Dobes in the 2026 Stanley Cup playoffs second round.
Connor McDavid's commitment to Oilers tested after early playoff exit; GM Bowman must overhaul roster to keep superstar.
Oilers' first-round playoff flop raises alarms on McDavid's future, Nurse's role, and offseason rebuild needs.
The Edmonton Oilers reached Stanley Cup finals in 2024 and 2025 but exited early in 2026 playoffs, with stars Draisaitl and McDavid voicing concerns over the team's direction.
The LA Kings are set to interview candidates for their head coaching vacancy, including interim coach D.J. Smith, as GM Ken Holland seeks improvements without a full rebuild.
Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid bluntly admit the Edmonton Oilers regressed this season, calling out a loss of fire after their playoff exit.
The Bruins rebounded to the playoffs but lost in six games to Buffalo. Key issues: offense dried up, home woes, depth lacking. Strengths and offseason plans ahead.
Dallas Stars face critical decisions on Jason Robertson's expiring contract after first-round playoff exit, with $10-12M AAV projections amid cap constraints.
Evgeni Malkin wants to finish career in Pittsburgh, but Penguins weigh rebuild vs. loyalty after playoff push.
Buffalo's blueline has been exceptional against the Bruins, holding them to few shots while chipping in points, giving the Sabres a strong chance to advance.
Hurricanes coach Rod Brind’Amour reignites debate on NHL video review for penalties following a controversial sucker punch in Game 4 against Ottawa Senators.
Undrafted Islander Kyle MacLean scores tying goal in playoff debut at PNC Arena, fulfilling a childhood dream in reverse against the Hurricanes.
Current standings, results, and key matchups in the 2026 Stanley Cup playoffs first round, featuring sweeps by Carolina and Colorado.
Oilers on the brink of elimination vs Ducks in Game 5, with McDavid's ankle injury status uncertain.
Ducks' OT goal vs. Oilers in Game 4 playoffs causes massive controversy, with calls for better officiating tech amid 3-1 series lead.
Devante Smith-Pelly urges Red Wings to trade youth for veterans to address depth issues and break playoff drought after another late collapse.
Steve Yzerman hints at major Detroit Red Wings roster changes following another playoff miss and end-of-season press conference.
Lane Hutson fires overtime winner as Canadiens edge Lightning 3-2 in Game 3, leading series 2-1.
Revisiting Steve Yzerman's 'bare minimums' as Red Wings GM: cap spending, playoff contention by Thanksgiving, and generational draft picks in year seven.
Jets GM Cheveldayoff stresses careful offseason planning after missing playoffs, focusing on evaluations amid questions about coach Arniel.
Wyatt Johnston's net-front tip in double OT on the power play secures a thrilling 4-3 win for the Stars over the Wild in Game 3, giving Dallas a 2-1 series advantage.
Trace the decade-long journey of Avalanche goaltenders Blackwood and Wedgewood from Albany AHL roommates to 'Lumber Yard' tandem winners of the Jennings Trophy.
ESPN's Greg Wyshynski predicts the Colorado Avalanche to win the 2026 Stanley Cup playoffs, with detailed bracket breakdowns for Eastern and Western Conferences.
Expert betting preview for the 2026 NHL playoffs first round with odds, best bets, and analysis for every series.
Preview of the 2026 Stanley Cup playoffs bracket, Eastern and Western Conference seeds, team breakdowns, and expert bold predictions.
Terry's power-play goal with 2:54 left secures Ducks' 5-4 win over Predators, locking in third seed in Pacific for playoffs.
Avalanche coach Jared Bednar out after puck causes facial fractures in loss to Golden Knights; full recovery expected.
Avalanche coach Jared Bednar hospitalized after puck strikes his face in third period vs. Golden Knights.
Jack Eichel scores 1:19 into OT to clinch playoffs for Vegas Golden Knights, who surge to top of Pacific Division.
Anaheim Ducks lock in GM Pat Verbeek with multiyear extension as they push for playoffs, promoting Mike Stapleton to associate GM.
Colorado Avalanche clinch Presidents' Trophy in 3-1 win over Flames, powered by MacKinnon's 52nd goal and team depth without key players.
Predators captain Roman Josi became a late scratch due to an upper-body injury against Utah Mammoth, casting doubt on Nashville's wild-card hopes.
Cole Caufield hits 50 goals, becoming the first Habs player to do so in 35 years, boosting playoff hopes.
Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Jalen Chatfield will miss Thursday night's game against the Chicago Blackhawks due to a lower-body injury from the overtime win over Boston.
Sabres' Alex Lyon faces lower-body injury that could sideline him for the playoffs start after team's historic clinch.
Thomas Chabot is back after missing only eight games due to a broken arm, strengthening the Senators' defense for their playoff push.
Ron Francis to step down as Seattle Kraken president of hockey operations at season's end, with Jason Botterill taking over.
Alex Ovechkin plans to decide his NHL future in summer after Capitals' season, prioritizing health amid playoff push.
Kucherov reaches 400 career goals in Lightning's 4-2 loss to Sabres, who tie atop Atlantic Division.
In a stunning late-season move, the New York Islanders fire Patrick Roy and hire Peter DeBoer amid a playoff push.
The 2026 NHL Atlantic Division title race intensifies with Tampa Bay leading Buffalo and Montreal by just two points, heading to the wire.
The New York Islanders have fired head coach Patrick Roy amid a losing streak and hired Peter DeBoer as his permanent replacement with just four games remaining in the season.
Florida Panthers eliminated from 2026 playoffs after devastating injuries, ending back-to-back Cup defenses with a 9-4 loss to Pittsburgh.
Buffalo Sabres clinch playoffs, snapping 14-year drought – the longest in NHL history – with a stunning surge to contention.
Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Damon Severson will miss the remainder of the 2025-26 season after undergoing successful shoulder surgery following an injury against the Montreal Canadiens.
ESPN's updated 1-32 NHL power rankings highlight top teams like Colorado Avalanche and intense playoff races with fewer than 14 days remaining in 2025-26.
Nathan MacKinnon makes NHL history as the first to reach 50 goals this season in Avalanche's loss to Canucks.
Cale Makar out a few games with upper-body injury; Avalanche coach says not serious, team focuses on playoff readiness.
Sam Carrick exits Sabres' 4-3 win over Islanders with left arm injury after fighting Anders Lee.
Dallas Stars secure GM Jim Nill with a two-year extension through 2027-28, amid speculation following Toronto's GM firing.
Hurricanes and Blue Jackets clash in Columbus with major implications for Metro Division seeding and Eastern Conference playoff positioning.
Sidney Crosby is back in the Penguins lineup after a lower-body injury, facing the Islanders in a pivotal Eastern Conference playoff race matchup.
Vegas Golden Knights dismiss Bruce Cassidy amid slump, hire veteran coach John Tortorella with eight games left in regular season.
The Penguins host the Stars without Crosby and Malkin, clinging to second place in the Metropolitan with 10 games left.
ESPN NHL power rankings update with each team's all-time playoff points leader as playoffs near.
Thomas Chabot faces 1-2 months out with broken arm, deepening Senators' defensive injury woes amid tight wild-card race.
Kraken forward Ryan Winterton is taking a temporary leave of absence to attend to a family matter, just after missing games due to illness.
Fantasy managers should target Rangers forwards like Lafreniere and Perreault, plus Blackhawks' Nazar, for maximum impact during light schedule days.
Alex Ovechkin notches his 1,000th career NHL goal in a thrilling 3-2 OT loss to the league-leading Avalanche.
Colorado Avalanche remain No. 1 in ESPN's power rankings as Dallas Stars gain ground in the Presidents' Trophy race, while Buffalo Sabres enter top three.
The 2026 Presidents' Trophy race intensifies as Colorado leads Dallas by two points with playoffs approaching, featuring tight standings and crucial upcoming games.
Sharks lurk one point from wild card with 64.7% playoff odds, soft schedule, and pivotal games vs. Edmonton and Anaheim.
Highlighting the grizzled NHL veterans, known as OGWAC, who are prime candidates to finally win the Stanley Cup in the 2026 playoffs.
Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews ruled out for remainder of 2025-26 after severe knee injury in Ducks game.
Oilers third in Pacific (72 points) face tight playoff race vs. Vegas, San Jose. Stathletes projections: 93.6% odds, Vegas most likely 1st-round foe (36.8%).
ESPN's NHL power rankings feature top teams like Colorado Avalanche at No. 1 and key fantasy waiver pickups to boost your playoff rosters.
Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews exits game vs. Ducks after knee-on-knee collision with Radko Gudas, who gets ejected.
Comprehensive guide to fantasy hockey playoffs: schedule advantages, key pickups, goaltending options, and roster strategies to win your league.
Utah Mammoth forward Nick Schmaltz signs eight-year, $64 million extension, committing through 2033-34 amid strong playoff push.
The Eastern wild-card race tightens with Detroit, Boston, and Montreal leading; challengers like Columbus and Ottawa loom large with under 20 games left.
Western Conference wild card race heats up with Utah Mammoth leading, but challengers like Seattle Kraken and San Jose Sharks closing in amid tough schedules and key Tuesday matchups.
Florida Panthers face decision to potentially shut down star Brad Marchand for the season amid injury and slim playoff chances.
Anaheim Ducks seize control of the Pacific Division race with a favorable schedule, leading Vegas by one point in a tight battle with Edmonton and Seattle.
Jack Hughes' hat trick lifts Devils to 6-3 win over Rangers, marking fourth consecutive victory in Hudson River rivalry.
Seattle Kraken lock in captain Jordan Eberle with a two-year, $5.5 million annual extension through 2027-28, amid his dominant season.
The Kings trade Corey Perry to the Lightning for a future pick, bringing the 40-year-old veteran back to Tampa Bay amid their strong playoff contention.
The Minnesota Wild acquired winger Bobby Brink from the Philadelphia Flyers for defenseman David Jiricek, boosting forward depth at the trade deadline.
ESPN's fresh NHL power rankings 1-32 spotlight top teams, points percentages, and must-see March matchups amid trade deadline buzz.
Buffalo Sabres bolster defense with Logan Stanley and Luke Schenn from Jets, add grit with Sam Carrick, signaling strong playoff intentions.
Columbus Blue Jackets acquire Conor Garland from Vancouver Canucks for a 2026 third-round pick and 2028 second-round pick to boost playoff chances.
Capitals secure depth forward Ethen Frank with a two-year, $4M extension amid Eastern Conference wild card chase.
The San Jose Sharks have signed Kiefer Sherwood to a five-year, $28.75 million contract extension, locking in the 30-year-old winger through his prime years.
NHL GMs are scrambling due to expedited salary cap rules from the new CBA, briefed late and affecting playoff rosters and trade strategies ahead of the deadline.
The Oilers acquire defenseman Connor Murphy from the Blackhawks for a future second-round pick, addressing defensive and penalty kill struggles ahead of the deadline.
Post-Olympics NHL doubleheader preview: Penguins vs Rangers and Bruins vs Flyers, highlighting records, stars, and momentum shifts.
ESPN's latest 1-32 NHL power rankings after the 2026 Olympics, featuring top teams like Colorado, betting picks, and key upcoming matchups.
Quenneville earns historic 1,000th NHL win as Ducks stage stunning comeback victory over Oilers, boosting playoff hopes.
Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov eyes imminent return from knee injury while donating millions to children's hospital as team battles for playoff spot.
NHL bubble watch post-2026 Olympics: Division-by-division breakdown of playoff probabilities, locks, contenders, and long shots amid injuries and fatigue.
Post-Olympics NHL bubble watch: Playoff locks, contenders, and bubble teams resume amid injuries, fatigue, and tight wild-card races.
The Buffalo Sabres have signed forward Josh Doan to a seven-year, $48.65 million contract extension, marking the first big move by new GM Jarmo Kekäläinen.
Matthew Tkachuk made his season debut for the injury-plagued Panthers in a 4-1 loss to the Sharks, logging 21 minutes after recovering from summer surgery.
Star forward Matthew Tkachuk returns to the Florida Panthers lineup after nearly a year sidelined by injuries, just in time for their playoff push.
Capitals GM Chris Patrick prioritizes playoff chase over Ovechkin contract talks, eyes skilled winger at deadline amid tight race.
St. Louis Blues place leading scorer Robert Thomas on injured reserve with a lower-body injury; re-evaluation in two weeks.
Pittsburgh Penguins lock in Blake Lizotte with a three-year, $2.25M AAV extension through 2028-29, rewarding his key contributions to the team's success.
The New York Rangers have placed star goaltender Igor Shesterkin on injured reserve and defenseman Adam Fox on long-term injured reserve after a 3-2 overtime loss to the Utah Mammoth.
Unprecedented NHL parity in 2025-26 with 26 teams above .500. ESPN's bubble watch analyzes playoff odds and projections for all 32 teams across divisions.
Pittsburgh Penguins face Detroit Red Wings in a pivotal rivalry game on January 3, featuring key matchups, recent form, stats, and betting insights with playoff stakes.
Buffalo Sabres tie franchise record with a 10-game winning streak as they climb into playoff contention.
A data-driven quarterly snapshot of NHL playoff probabilities for all 32 teams, highlighting locks, bubble teams, long shots, and lottery-bound franchises.
Columbus Blue Jackets place Zach Werenski on injured reserve, creating a big challenge for their defense as they push for the playoffs.
New Buffalo Sabres GM Jarmo Kekalainen emphasizes building team character and consistency as the foundation for turning skilled players into a winning team, with a focus on culture over quick fixes.
Rangers place star defenseman Adam Fox on LTIR with an upper-body injury, creating a leadership and depth challenge as they fight to stay in the playoff hunt.
Quarter-season NHL grades for all 32 teams with analysis of top performers, surprises, and playoff implications at the season's midpoint.
Updates on Matthew Tkachuk's skating progress and recovery timeline for the Florida Panthers.
Status update on Panthers star Matthew Tkachuk's recovery from abdominal surgery and his uncertain return timeline.
Overview of Alexander Romanov's right shoulder surgery, the five-to-six month recovery timeline, and its impact on the Islanders' defense and playoff push.
Quarter-season look at NHL MVPs across all teams, highlighting top performers, breakout stars, and the tight playoff race.
A data-driven look at how Thanksgiving has historically forecasted NHL playoff teams and why 2025 could test that convention.
In-depth update on Matthew Tkachuk's return-to-play timeline for the Florida Panthers, covering injury background, surgery, rehab progress, and playoff implications.
Islanders defender Alexander Romanov is out five to six months following shoulder surgery, impacting the team’s defensive depth and playoff plans.
A detailed season recap of the New York Rangers' 2010-11 campaign, focusing on their return to the playoffs, standout players, and the development of a youth-driven core.
Analysis of Sam Reinhart's hot streak for the Florida Panthers, highlighting his scoring surge, leadership, and key moments shaping Florida's 2025-26 season.
Seattle’s 4-2 loss to Detroit exposed a special-teams collapse and posed questions about the Kraken’s playoff chances and lineup decisions.
Analysis of Jack Hughes' finger surgery, recovery timeline, and implications for the Devils' season.
Carolina Hurricanes rely on depth players stepping up to drive offense and sustain playoff momentum amid injuries.
Comprehensive overview of Matthew Tkachuk's injury timeline with the Florida Panthers, from initial 2025 injuries through surgery and progressive recovery into the 2025-26 season.
The Los Angeles Kings have showcased elite road performance, compiling a strong away record that fuels their playoff push despite struggles at Crypto.com Arena.
Analysis of the 2025 Brandon Carlo trade and its effects on the Maple Leafs’ defensive structure and playoff push.
Tim Stützle is shaping up as one of the NHL's most intriguing stars. This piece analyzes his points progression, defensive growth, playoff potential, and the Senators' roster construction to assess his path to superstardom.
A detailed overview of Connor McDavid's standout moments in 2025 with the Oilers, covering playoff heroics, milestones, and the evolution of his game.