NHL Hockey 8-Hour Briefing

Last updated: March 14, 2026, 9:56 AM ET

NHL Playoff Preview

The Bruins-Capitals matchup dominates ESPN's Saturday slate, featuring a 14-game NHL slate packed with playoff implications. ESPN's full playoff projections highlight Boston's defensive depth against Washington's offensive firepower, while draft lottery standings are spotlighted for teams like the Florida Panthers and Ottawa Senators, who could secure top-2 picks if they miss the playoffs. This slate underscores the tight race for seeding, with every game carrying playoff weight.