NHL Hockey 24 Hours

Last updated: May 22, 2026, 5:50 PM ET

Playoff Action

The Vegas Golden Knights opened the Western Conference finals with a 4-2 victory over Colorado, getting a first playoff goal from Dylan Coghlan and 36 saves from Carter Hart. The win came despite Cale Makar's absence from the lineup due to an upper-body injury, with the Avalanche struggling to replicate their first-round dominance in a loss that exposed their defensive vulnerabilities. Expert analysis graded both teams' performances, noting that Vegas's special teams execution proved decisive while questioning Colorado's ability to adjust without their Norris Trophy-winning defenseman.

Eastern Conference Finals

Montreal continued their remarkable playoff run by pouncing on Carolina early with four first-period goals in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals, capitalizing on the Hurricanes' slow start following an extended break. Jaccob Slavin shouldered blame for the defensive breakdown that led to the 5-1 loss, acknowledging his role in a performance that was uncharacteristic of Carolina's usual standards. The Canadiens' dominant showing positioned them well in the series opener, with their speed and forechecking pressure overwhelming the Presidents' Trophy winners.

International Competition

Canada remained perfect at the ice hockey world championship with a 3-1 victory over Slovenia, improving to 5-0 in the tournament. Mark Scheifele's overtime heroics lifted Canada to a 6-5 win over Norway, scoring three goals including the game-winner just 29 seconds into sudden death. The Canadian squad's strong showing keeps them atop their group as they prepare for the medal round, with their offensive depth proving crucial in tight games.

Personnel Moves

Buffalo rewarded coach Lindy Ruff with a two-year contract extension after guiding the Sabres back to the playoffs and ending a 14-year postseason drought, the longest active streak in the NHL. Meanwhile, former U.S. Olympian Meghan Duggan left her NHL player development role to become general manager of the PWHL's Hamilton expansion franchise, marking continued growth in women's professional hockey leadership. The Washington Capitals re-signed defenseman Timothy Liljegren to a two-year, $6.5 million deal, providing stability on their blue line.

Injury Updates

Anaheim Ducks forward Troy Terry will require hip surgery that could jeopardize his availability for the start of next season, dealing a blow to a team looking to rebuild. The injury timeline remains uncertain but represents a significant setback for the 27-year-old winger who had been a key offensive contributor before being sidelined.

League Business

An autographed 1979 O-Pee-Chee Wayne Gretzky rookie card sold for $540,000 in Fanatics Collect's May Premier Auction, setting a record for the highest price ever paid for an autographed hockey card. The sale underscores the continued strength of the sports memorabilia market, particularly for iconic pieces from hockey's greatest players. Montreal Victoire captured the first PWHL championship with a 4-0 shutout victory over Ottawa Charge, led by Abby Roque's two goals in the Walter Cup Finals clincher.

Betting Markets

Sports Line's projection model identified key trends for Friday's playoff action, with the Avalanche-Golden Knights matchup featuring prominently among the day's top betting opportunities. Same-game parlays were recommended for the Western Conference finals rematch, while odds makers adjusted lines based on Makar's continued absence from Colorado's lineup. Bettors could access up to $1,500 in bonus bets through promotional offers for Friday's action, with similar incentives available through Draft Kings for new customers.