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NHL Hockey 24 Hours

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Last updated: May 22, 2026, 5:56 AM ET

Playoff Action

The Montreal Canadiens pounced for four first-period goals to stun the Carolina Hurricanes 5-2 in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals, capitalizing on what defenseman Jaccob Slavin called a "handed the game" performance after the Hurricanes' uncharacteristic defensive breakdown. Slavin shouldered full responsibility for the loss, acknowledging Carolina's slow start following the longest postseason break in more than a century. Meanwhile, the Vegas Golden Knights opened the Western Conference finals with a 4-2 victory over Colorado, getting a first playoff goal from Dylan Coghlan while Carter Hart turned aside 36 shots. The Avalanche struggled without Cale Makar, as the top-seeded team looked nothing like the squad that dominated the first two rounds with their star defenseman sidelined by an upper-body injury.

Coaching Moves & Contract Extensions

The Buffalo Sabres rewarded Lindy Ruff with a two-year contract extension after the 66-year-old coach led Buffalo back to the playoffs, ending the franchise's league-leading 14-year postseason drought. Washington also made moves on the blueline, re-signing defenseman Timothy Liljegren to a two-year, $6.5 million deal that provides stability to the Capitals' defensive corps. Expert analysts favor both remaining underdogs heading into the conference finals, with Montreal's road warrior mentality and Vegas's veteran experience potentially proving decisive factors.

Injury Updates & Player Health

Anaheim Ducks forward Troy Terry will undergo hip surgery that creates uncertainty around his availability for the start of next season, dealing a blow to a team already facing significant roster reconstruction. The injury situation mirrored Colorado's struggles as the Avalanche failed to replicate their earlier playoff success without Makar in the lineup, highlighting how star absences can derail even the most promising postseason runs.

International Competition & Development

Mark Scheifele scored three goals including the overtime winner as Canada defeated Norway 6-5 at the ice hockey world championship, showcasing his playoff form on the international stage. In professional women's hockey, the Montreal Victoire captured their first PWHL championship with a 4-0 Game 4 shutout victory over the Ottawa Charge, led by Abby Roque's two-goal performance in the Walter Cup Finals. The New York Islanders unveiled their AHL affiliate as the Hamilton Hammers, bringing professional hockey to the Canadian city after the franchise relocation.

Analysis & Awards Race

Four teams remain alive in the Stanley Cup playoffs, with several legitimate candidates emerging for the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP. The Golden Knights earned high marks for Game 1 execution while the Hurricanes received harsh assessments following their defensive lapses. Goaltending confidence ratings show Vegas holding advantages heading into the conference finals, with Hart's 36-save performance bolstering the Knights' belief in their crease.