NHL Hockey 8 Hours

Last updated: April 4, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

Eastern Conference Playoff Shockwaves The Panthers officially missed the postseason following a devastating 9-4 defeat in Pittsburgh, marking the end of their two-year reign as champions and ensuring a new titleholder emerges for the first time since 2023 1. This shocking collapse comes despite Florida's status as the reigning back-to-back titleholder, attributed largely to mounting injury concerns throughout the latter half of the season 1. Meanwhile, the Eastern Conference picture shifted dramatically as the Sabres secured their first playoff berth in 14 years, finally snapping the NHL's longest active drought of futility 2.