HeadlinesBriefing favicon HeadlinesBriefing

NHL Hockey 24 Hours

×
9 articles summarized · Last updated: LATEST

Last updated: May 20, 2026, 11:45 PM ET

Coaching Updates

The Buffalo Sabres rewarded coach Lindy Ruff with a two-year contract extension after the 66-year-old led the team back to the NHL playoffs, ending a league-leading 14-year postseason drought. Ruff's extension comes as the franchise looks to build on their return to playoff contention after years of rebuilding efforts.

Conference Finals Preview

The Stanley Cup conference finals begin Wednesday with significant storylines across the remaining four teams. The Carolina Hurricanes face an 11-day playoff layoff before Game 1 against the Canadiens, marking the longest break between games since 1919. Meanwhile, the Colorado Avalanche will be without star defenseman Cale Makar for Game 1 of the Western Conference finals against the Golden Knights. The Avalanche host the Golden Knights on Wednesday with the team yet to lose on home ice during these Stanley Cup playoffs. Experts analyze the final four clubs focusing on goalie confidence ratings and key factors that could determine series outcomes.

Betting & Analysis

Wednesday's conference finals offer several betting opportunities with promotions available for fans. Bet MGM offers bonus code promotions providing $1,500 in bonus bets if your first bet loses for Avalanche-Golden Knights games, while Draft Kings promotes $100 in bonus bets after your first $5 wager. Sports Line and CBS Sports experts provide best bets for the biggest games, with predictions for all conference finals matchups based on the latest odds and team performance data.