NHL Hockey 3 Days

Last updated: April 21, 2026, 8:30 AM ET

Stanley Cup Playoff Opening Round Action

The initial slate of Stanley Cup playoff matchups delivered immediate drama, highlighted by significant comebacks and key player returns. The Edmonton Oilers secured a narrow 4-3 victory over the Anaheim Ducks in Game 1, fueled by a late third-period goal from Kasperi Kapanen with 1:54 remaining, while the return of star center Leon Draisaitl, who had been sidelined since March 15 with a lower-body issue, provided a major boost to the Oilers' lineup. Meanwhile, the top-seeded Colorado Avalanche edged the Kings in Game 1 on Sunday, an effort capped by Logan O'Connor scoring his first goal in nearly a year to seal the win. The Vegas Golden Knights remained perfect in regulation under new coach John Tortorella, rallying with three third-period goals to defeat the Mammoth 4-2 in their opener.

Several series immediately saw teams grapple with early deficits and officiating controversy. The Montreal Canadiens pulled off an upset victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning, as 2022 No. 1 pick Juraj Slafkovsky completed his first playoff hat trick with the game-winner 1:22 into overtime, leaving Lightning coach Jon Cooper citing "stupidity" regarding penalties that cost his team the opener. In Carolina, Jordan Martinook finally ended a marathon Game 1 in the second overtime period after a potential earlier winner was overturned and Martinook himself missed a first-overtime penalty shot against Linus Ullmark. The Dallas Stars faced a familiar struggle, dropping Game 1 for the ninth time in their last 11 playoff runs after a decisive 6-1 loss to the Wild, though the team later managed to correct course in Game 2 with a 4-2 series-tying victory by overcoming issues that plagued them early in the postseason.

Eastern Conference Surprises & Rookie Feats

In the Eastern Conference quarterfinal action, the Philadelphia Flyers took a 2-0 series lead over the rival Penguins, propelled by 19-year-old rookie Porter Martone who scored the eventual winner with 2:37 left in the 3-2 contest. Martone immediately followed that performance by becoming the first teenager in Flyers franchise history to score in each of his first two playoff appearances. The Sabres, after securing a special playoff opening win, are now focused on maintaining momentum as they turn their attention fully toward Game 2.

Off-Season Decisions & League Outlooks

Beyond the current on-ice battles, organizational decisions loom for several franchises. Washington Capitals management affirmed they are prepared for whatever decision Captain Alex Ovechkin makes regarding his potential return for a 22nd NHL season. Separately, Sharks star Macklin Celebrini expressed his willingness to discuss an offseason extension after concluding his entry-level contract which carries a $2.925 million cap hit, signaling a desire to remain in San Jose. Analysts are also assessing the broader playoff picture, with recent commentary providing comprehensive bracket predictions forecasting series outcomes through the Stanley Cup Final, while other outlets drew amusement by comparing postseason traditions to the narrative structures seen in professional wrestling.