NHL Hockey 3 Days

Last updated: April 17, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

NHL: Playoff Picture Finalized & Offseason Shifts

With the regular season concluding, the final day’s action determined multiple playoff seeds and draft lottery positions across the league, culminating in six games that finalized the 16-team postseason bracket. The Anaheim Ducks secured the No. 3 seed in the Pacific Division following a hard-fought 5-4 victory over the Nashville Predators, locking in their first-round matchup. Meanwhile, front offices are already making moves; the Vancouver Canucks fired general manager Patrik Allvin after posting the worst record in the NHL this season. Separately, the Chicago Blackhawks demonstrated commitment to their current management, announcing the contract extension for GM Kyle Davidson this Wednesday.

Team Health & Personnel Concerns

As the playoffs loom, several high-profile teams are grappling with major personnel setbacks and internal issues. Dallas Stars center Roope Hintz will miss the beginning of the postseason after suffering a setback in his recovery from a lower-body injury, complicating their path against the Minnesota Wild. The Wild, in turn, are keeping their starting goaltender secret for Game 1 against Dallas, with coach refusing to name whether Filip Gustavsson or Jesper Wallstedt will get the nod. On the injury front, former Rangers forward Vincent Trocheck revealed his month-long absence earlier in the season was due to a serious bacterial infection in a lung that necessitated surgery. In international news, Florida Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov, who missed the entire NHL season, confirmed he will play for Finland in the upcoming World Championship in May after receiving a clean bill of health.

Front Office & Player Futures

Offseason contract negotiations and coaching stability are already dominating news cycles for non-playoff teams. The Chicago Blackhawks have made securing their cornerstone player a top priority, confirming that finalizing a deal for restricted free agent Connor Bedard will be paramount. Conversely, Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews remains noncommittal about his future in Toronto, stating Thursday that he "can't predict the future" regarding his return next season. Coaching stability arrived in Columbus, where Rick Bowness agreed to return as the Blue Jackets head coach for the next campaign, despite having recently blasted his players for a lack of desire following a season-ending loss. Furthermore, the San Jose Sharks added NCAA champion Eric Pohlkamp, a Hobey Baker Award finalist, on a two-year entry-level deal.

Betting Markets and Stanley Cup Contenders

With the playoff field set, betting markets have established clear favorites while acknowledging inherent flaws within the top contenders. The Colorado Avalanche, alongside the Carolina Hurricanes and Tampa Bay Lightning, stand out as the primary contenders to hoist the Stanley Cup. However, the betting public is showing interest in longshots, with the Buffalo Sabres attracting attention from bettors looking for significant returns. Analysts are cautioning that no team is without weakness, preparing detailed breakdowns of the biggest issues facing each of the 16 playoff participants. Experts have also released comprehensive guides detailing Conn Smythe Trophy predictions and future bets for every first-round series, while a general guide summarizes the top teams and essential statistics for lapsed fans rejoining the action.

League Trends and Controversies

The league is facing scrutiny over declining defensive efficiency and a recent organizational controversy. Data shows that the average NHL goaltender save percentage has fallen below .900, marking the lowest figure recorded in the last three decades. In a separate matter drawing criticism, the New York Islanders are facing backlash for a jumbotron promotion soliciting donations for a recently convicted former police sergeant involved in an assault. Meanwhile, within the Avalanche organization, speculation is mounting over whether 30-year-old Nathan Mac Kinnon has already surpassed Joe Sakic as the franchise's single greatest player.