NHL Hockey 24 Hours

Last updated: May 4, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

Stanley Cup Playoff Second Round Forecasts

As the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs transition into the second round, analysts are assessing series outcomes, projecting which four teams will advance to the Conference Finals. The Western Conference features a matchup where the Golden Knights face the Ducks in a series that Vegas is favored to win, with model projections suggesting the Knights should secure home ice advantage in Game. Meanwhile, the Flyers and Hurricanes clash in the Eastern Conference, with the Sports Line Projection Model offering specific Game 2 best bets for that series, even as general betting advice covers Monday's slate across sports.

Postseason Surprises & Early Exits

The initial rounds produced several significant upsets, demonstrating the volatility of the current postseason structure, as several top contenders faltered before reaching the second round. While the Vegas Golden Knights prepare to host Anaheim for Game, their presence in the second round contrasts sharply with teams previously considered Cup favorites who suffered shocking first-round eliminations. In other NHL news, several teams clinched Game 7 victories on the same night that the Detroit Pistons and Cleveland Cavaliers secured their respective series wins.