NHL Hockey 24-Hour Briefing
×Last updated: March 15, 2026, 3:50 AM ET
NHL Playoff Picture
The Boston Bruins and Washington Capitals headline a 14-game NHL slate Saturday, with the Eastern Conference showdown carrying significant playoff implications. Boston, currently holding the second wild-card spot, needs a win to maintain pressure on the New York Rangers for the final playoff berth. Washington, sitting five points back with two games in hand, faces a must-win scenario to keep their postseason hopes alive. The game marks the first meeting between these rivals since Washington's 2018 playoff run, adding historical context to the high-stakes matchup.
Western Conference Race
Colorado Avalanche and Dallas Stars continue their push for the Central Division lead, separated by just two points heading into Saturday's action. The Avalanche, winners of four straight, face a struggling Chicago Blackhawks team that has lost seven consecutive games. Meanwhile, Dallas takes on a Nashville Predators squad fighting to stay above the playoff cutoff line. Both games could significantly impact seeding, as the Central Division winner secures home-ice advantage through the first two rounds.
Draft Lottery Implications
With the regular season entering its final month, teams at the bottom of the standings are positioning for the draft lottery. Arizona Coyotes, currently holding the league's worst record, have a 25% chance at the top pick but could fall as far as fourth overall. San Jose Sharks and Chicago Blackhawks, both with 20 or fewer wins, are in contention for the top-three selections. The lottery drawing, scheduled for April 8, will determine the first 16 picks in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, with the remaining selections ordered by regular-season points percentage.