NHL Hockey 24 Hours

Last updated: May 21, 2026, 11:57 PM ET

Stanley Cup Conference Finals

The Western Conference finals opened with a 4-2 victory for the Vegas Golden Knights over the Colorado Avalanche, as Dylan Coghlan scored his first playoff goal and Carter Hart made 36 saves. With star defenseman Cale Makar sidelined by an upper-body injury, the Avalanche struggled to resemble the top-seeded team that dominated the first two rounds. Meanwhile, the Eastern Conference finals begin Thursday with the Carolina Hurricanes hosting the Montreal Canadiens, as experts weigh in on which team will prevail in this intriguing matchup. Four teams remain alive in the postseason, with several legitimate candidates emerging for Conn Smythe consideration, including Golden Knights players who have stepped up in the absence of injured stars.

PWHL Championship

The Montreal Victoire secured their first PWHL title with a convincing 4-0 victory over the Ottawa Charge in Game 4 of the Walter Cup Finals. Abby Roque led the charge with two goals, cementing her status as a clutch performer in championship competition. The championship victory represents a significant milestone for the expansion franchise, which overcame early-season doubts to claim the league's ultimate prize in just its third year of existence.

Off-Move News

The Washington Capitals re-signed defenseman Timothy Liljegren to a two-year contract worth $6.5 million, providing stability to their blue line for the upcoming seasons. In Buffalo, the Sabres rewarded coach Lindy Ruff with a two-year contract extension after the 66-year-old led Buffalo back to the NHL playoffs, ending a league-leading 14-year postseason appearance drought. The Anaheim Ducks face uncertainty regarding forward Troy Terry, who requires hip surgery with a timeline for his return to action at the start of next season remaining unclear. Meanwhile, the New York Islanders revealed their AHL affiliate's name as the Hamilton Hammers after relocating the club to the Canadian city.

International Competition

Mark Scheifele delivered a three-goal performance for Canada at the ice hockey world championship, including the game-winner just 29 seconds into overtime in a 6-5 victory over Norway. In other international action, the United States defeated Germany in a 4-3 shootout victory, with Ryan Leonard scoring the decisive penalty to secure the win for the American squad.

Game Day Preview & Betting

As the hockey world shifts focus to Thursday's action, the Carolina Hurricanes prepare to face the Montreal Canadiens in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals, with Sports Line's model revealing its picks for the matchup. The Hurricanes, fueled by their passionate "Caniacs" fan base known for bringing a college football atmosphere to NHL games, look to continue their playoff dominance against a Canadiens team that has shown resilience throughout the postseason. Sports fans can capitalize on multiple betting promotions for Thursday's games, including Bet MGM's offer of $1,500 in bonus bets using the promo code CBSSPORTS and Draft Kings' $100 in bonus bets after a $5 wager. The puck drops on what promises to be an exciting night of hockey action.