With fewer than 14 days left in the 2025-26 NHL regular season, ESPN's latest power rankings show Colorado Avalanche holding the top spot at 73.0% points percentage. The Avalanche, who clinched a playoff berth first, face critical matchups including a pivotal game against the Dallas Stars on April 4 that could cement their No. 1 seed in the Western Conference.

Carolina Hurricanes sit second at 68.0% points percentage, with their April 7 matchup against the Boston Bruins potentially setting up a first-round playoff rematch from 2022. The Buffalo Sabres have surged to third place at 65.8%, riding momentum from their 8-7 victory over the Lightning that put them atop the Atlantic Division race. Their April 6 game against Tampa Bay could determine the division crown.

As the playoff picture crystallizes, several teams face must-win scenarios. The Detroit Red Wings, who appeared playoff-bound earlier, now need a significant winning streak after a 5-7-2 March. Meanwhile, Alex Ovechkin's potential final season adds drama to matchups like the April 11-12 games between the Pittsburgh Penguins and Washington Capitals, which could mark the last time Sidney Crosby faces his longtime rival.