NHL Hockey 24 Hours

Last updated: April 12, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

NHL Playoff Picture Solidifies Amid Injury Concerns

The race for the final Eastern Conference spots tightened considerably as the Vegas Golden Knights secured their postseason entry following a hard-fought 3-2 overtime victory against the Colorado Avalanche, propelled by Jack Eichel’s game-winning goal just 1:19 into the extra frame. Conversely, the Detroit Red Wings watched their postseason aspirations collapse after dropping a crucial 5-3 decision to the New Jersey Devils, officially ensuring the Original Six franchise will miss the playoffs for a tenth consecutive year. In the West, San Jose’s faint hopes dimmed further after a 4-3 shootout loss to Vancouver, leaving the Sharks—despite a 30-point improvement this season—on the absolute brink of elimination 1.

Coaching & Player Safety Issues Emerge

The closing stretch of the regular season has been marred by significant player and coaching injuries stemming from errant pucks. Avalanche bench boss Jared Bednar sustained facial fractures after being struck by a puck and will be sidelined for the remainder of the road trip and potentially until the playoffs commence. This injury concern mirrors an incident in Chicago, where forward Frank Nazar exited Saturday’s contest against St. Louis after also taking a puck off the face during the Blackhawks’ 5-3 defeat. Meanwhile, in non-playoff action, the Washington Capitals defeated the Pittsburgh Penguins 6-3, during which Alex Ovechkin received an appreciative video tribute from the Penguins organization during a timeout, acknowledging his long-standing rivalry with Sidney Crosby 4.

NCAA Hockey Concludes Season

While the NHL wraps its regular season, collegiate hockey crowned its champion as the University of Denver claimed the Frozen Four national title, defeating Wisconsin 2-1. This victory marks the third NCAA championship in five years for the Denver program, underscoring their recent dominance in amateur hockey 5.