NHL Hockey 24 Hours

Last updated: April 12, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

NHL Playoff Picture Solidifies Amid Dramatic Eliminations

The final stretch of the NHL regular season produced several decisive results, most painfully for the New York Islanders, whose playoff aspirations were officially terminated following a decisive 4-1 defeat against the Montreal Canadiens on Sunday night, ensuring they missed the postseason despite holding a spot for much of the campaign 1. In stark contrast, the Vegas Golden Knights punched their ticket late Saturday, securing their berth after Jack Eichel scored 1:19 into overtime to defeat the Colorado Avalanche 3-2, a victory that proved critical for Vegas's final positioning. Meanwhile, the San Jose Sharks remain precariously positioned on the brink of elimination after they managed only a single point in a 4-3 shootout loss versus the Vancouver Canucks, despite having already improved their standing by 30 points this season 4.

Coaching Setbacks & Veteran Farewells

The Avalanche, even in their loss to Vegas, face immediate concerns as Head Coach Jared Bednar suffered facial fractures after taking a puck to the face, confirming he will miss the concluding road trip to western Canada as he recovers ahead of the playoffs 3. Elsewhere, Washington Capitals icon Alex Ovechkin waved off potential farewell handshakes with Sidney Crosby following the Capitals' 3-0 shutout loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins on Sunday, declining premature recognition even as he contemplates retirement at season's end 2.