NHL Hockey 3h Briefing
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Last updated: March 18, 2026, 9:30 AM ET
Eastern Conference Race Tightens
The playoff race intensifies as the Pittsburgh Penguins face off against the Carolina Hurricanes Wednesday in a critical matchup that could shake up the Eastern Conference seeding. Projections for the final playoff bracket remain fluid following a busy Tuesday slate of games that also impacted the draft lottery standings.