NHL Hockey 24-Hour Briefing
×Last updated: March 15, 2026, 5:40 PM ET
Eastern Conference Playoff Race
The Washington Capitals secured a key prospect as Cole Hutson signed a three-year entry-level contract after his Boston University season ended in the Hockey East tournament. The 20-year-old defenseman, projected as a top-four NHL blueliner, bolsters Washington's blue line depth as they fight for playoff positioning in the tightly contested Metropolitan Division.
Western Conference Battle
In the Pacific Division, the Anaheim Ducks maintain slim title hopes heading into their final ten games, needing to win out while receiving significant help from teams above them in the standings. The Ducks' playoff projection improved slightly after Saturday's results, though they remain seven points back of the division-leading Edmonton Oilers with a game in hand. Meanwhile, the NHL lottery standings shifted dramatically following a busy Saturday that saw multiple teams clinch playoff berths while others were eliminated from postseason contention.