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Last updated: May 5, 2026, 5:30 AM ET

Stanley Cup Second Round Outlook & Betting Angles

The 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs advance into the second round with several key matchups drawing expert analysis and modeling projections across the bracket. In the Eastern Conference, the series between the Flyers vs. Hurricanes is central to Monday’s action, where the Sports Line Projection Model offers specific picks for Game, seeking to capitalize after a potentially favorable result in the opener. Concurrently, prognosticators are already evaluating player props, with bets focusing on Hurricanes forward Taylor Hall being among the best options for Monday's slate of games.

Out West, the second-round pairing sees the Ducks facing the Golden Knights as they open their series, with Vegas expected by analysts to secure home-ice advantage and the crucial first win in the series opener. This round follows a tumultuous first round where established contenders, including the Lightning and Oilers, failed to advance, setting up a less predictable path to the Conference Finals. Furthermore, the opening round saw several dramatic Game 7 victories, with the Pistons, Cavs, and 76ers all advancing after deciding contests, though the NHL results were overshadowed in reporting by the Kentucky Derby triumph of Golden Tempo.