NHL Hockey 3h Briefing

Last updated: March 13, 2026, 10:42 AM ET

NHL Playoff Picture

The Edmonton Oilers' postseason path continues to take shape espn.com as they secure a favorable first-round matchup, with projections showing them as a potential Stanley Cup contender. Meanwhile, fantasy hockey managers are scrambling for late-season pickups espn.com with the ESPN Fantasy playoffs underway, targeting under-the-radar players who could deliver crucial points in the championship rounds.

Western Conference Race

Colorado's recent winning streak has them locked into the second seed espn.com, setting up a likely second-round clash with Edmonton if both advance. The battle for the final wild-card spot remains tight between Chicago and San Jose espn.com, with just two points separating the two teams and both facing critical divisional matchups this weekend.

Fantasy Impact

With the fantasy postseason in full swing, rookies are emerging as difference-makers espn.com, particularly in deeper leagues where waiver-wire options are scarce. Elite performers like Connor McDavid and Auston Matthews are maintaining their fantasy dominance espn.com, but savvy managers are finding value in middle-six forwards who are seeing increased ice time due to injuries on their respective teams.