NHL Hockey 3h Briefing

Last updated: March 24, 2026, 9:30 AM ET

NHL Playoff Races & Prospect Watch

With 30 teams taking the ice Tuesday, the playoff picture tightens across both conferences, making the outcomes of the 15 scheduled games critical for seeding implications down the stretch. While focus remains on the immediate results, teams are simultaneously preparing for the future by assessing their top youth assets; for instance, scouting reports on forward Willander Hagens provide insight into the immediate impact expected from the next wave of talent ready to feature on NHL rosters. The evaluation of prospects like Jonathan Iginla further shows the league's forward-looking strategy as clubs vie for postseason berths now while building depth for the coming seasons.