NHL Hockey 3 Days

Last updated: April 24, 2026, 2:30 AM ET

NHL Playoff Series Tighten & Urgency Mounts

The Eastern Conference first round saw dramatic swings as several series reached critical junctures. The Tampa Bay Lightning rallied late in the third period to secure a 3-2 overtime victory against the Canadiens in Game, successfully ending a four-game home playoff losing streak and knotting their series. Elsewhere, the Bruins channeled their Game 1 disappointment, storming ahead with four goals in the first 41 minutes of their Game 2 matchup, with Jeremy Swayman stopping 34 shots to earn a decisive 4-2 win. Conversely, the Penguins face immediate pressure after dropping the first two games; captain Sidney Crosby admitted that following two home losses, the urgency is heightened as they look to rebound in the next contest.

Western Conference Battles & Roster News

In the West, the Dallas Stars demonstrated resilience by tying their series at 1-1 against the Wild after correcting the miscues that plagued them in Game. However, their victory came at a cost, as injured top-line center Roope Hintz remained in Texas while the team traveled to Minnesota, leaving a significant gap in their top-six forward group. Meanwhile, the Edmonton Oilers started their series strong, with Leon Draisaitl returning to the lineup to record two points in their 4-3 Game 1 victory over the Ducks, sealed by Kasperi Kapanen's late third-period goal with 1:54 remaining.

Off-Ice Developments & On-Ice Incidents

Away from the ice surface, new management is settling in, as incoming Devils General Manager Sunny Mehta vowed to focus on process when addressing the media Tuesday, emphasizing patience in the pursuit of building a true title contender. On the ice, an unusual incident occurred during the Kings-Avalanche matchup when interim coach D.J. Smith was struck by shattered glass after a pane broke behind the Los Angeles bench during Game, requiring attention during the intense Western Conference clash.