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8 articles summarized · Last updated: LATEST

Last updated: April 20, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

Stanley Cup Playoffs: Early Upsets & Key Returns

The opening round of the Stanley Cup playoffs saw immediate drama, highlighted by the Montreal Canadiens securing a stunning Game 1 overtime victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning, fueled by 22-year-old Juraj Slafkovsky notching his first playoff hat trick. Lightning coach Jon Cooper later attributed the 4-3 overtime defeat to "stupidity" regarding the penalties his team committed throughout the contest. Further west, the Vegas Golden Knights rallied with three third-period goals to defeat the Mammoth 4-2 in their opener, continuing their impressive run under new coach John Tortorella, who has guided the team to an regulation loss streak since taking charge last month. Meanwhile, the top-seeded Colorado Avalanche edged the Kings as Logan O'Connor scored his first goal in nearly a year to seal the Game 1 win.

Western Conference Personnel & League Context

Anticipation is building in Edmonton as star center Leon Draisaitl, sidelined since March 15 with a lower-body injury, is projected to return for Game 1 against the Anaheim Ducks, a massive boost for the Oilers' playoff aspirations. As the postseason commences, analysts are already ranking the top 50 players expected to dictate the outcome across the 16-team bracket, emphasizing the outsized impact individual performances will have in the quest for the ultimate prize. Beyond the ice, league traditions are being compared to other major sporting events, with some observers attempting to use WWE narratives to explain the intensity of the Stanley Cup first round matchups this weekend.

Postseason Focus Shifts Quickly

For teams that secured initial wins, the immediate focus is already pivoting toward the next challenge, illustrating the unforgiving nature of the NHL postseason. The Buffalo Sabres, following what sources described as a "special playoff win," were quick to emphasize turning the page as they prepare for Game 2, ensuring no time is wasted celebrating early success.