NHL Hockey 3h Briefing

Last updated: March 18, 2026, 10:30 AM ET

NHL Playoff Race Tightens

The race for the final Eastern Conference wild card spot intensifies dramatically espn.com as the Pittsburgh Penguins espn.com prepare to face the Carolina Hurricanes espn.com on Wednesday night, a contest critical for both teams' postseason hopes. Current playoff projections espn.com indicate that Pittsburgh needs a victory to maintain realistic pressure on Carolina, whose recent defensive lapses have tightened the gap following Tuesday's action across the league. These critical late-season matchups will also influence final draft lottery standings espn.com for non-contending franchises.