Eastern Conference Playoff Picture Tightens as Season Nears End

NEWARK, N.J. — As the NHL regular season enters its final stretch, teams in the Eastern Conference playoff mix have 15 to 17 games remaining to secure their postseason berths. With key metrics indicating fierce competition, three teams from the Atlantic Division appear nearly locked in while significant jockeying continues among others.

The Tampa Bay Lightning, Boston Bruins, and Toronto Maple Leafs have substantially solidified their playoff positions. Meanwhile, the Carolina Hurricanes and New York Rangers are also in strong positions to make the playoffs. The New York Islanders, currently on a three-game winning streak, are hopeful as they pursue a wild card spot.

As it stands, the Rangers are positioned first among wild card teams, holding 75 points and 26 regulation wins from 65 games played. Following closely are the Columbus Blue Jackets with 70 points and fewer games played, indicating a potential shift in the standings should they maintain momentum.

Just a point behind them with 69 points are the Detroit Red Wings, with the Montreal Canadiens and Florida Panthers both vying actively with 68 points each. The all-important tiebreaker of regulation wins favors the Rangers, who have accumulated 29, significantly ahead of all other contenders in this race.

This Saturday will see four of the five teams battling for playoff positioning on the ice as they gear up for crucial games. Notably, teams looking to catch up to the Ottawa Senators will be keen to see the outcome of the Maple Leafs’ match as they host the Senators.

With the April 17 deadline for playoff qualification fast approaching, continuous updates will keep fans engaged in the intense gameplay of the remaining weeks. Organizations will also closely monitor events as they relate to the 2025 NHL Draft Lottery, which adds an additional layer to an already thrilling conclusion of the regular season.

In other significant news, New Jersey Devils defenseman Dougie Hamilton will miss the remainder of the regular season potentially affecting playoff plans. GM Tom Fitzgerald stated Thursday that Hamilton could be unavailable if the Devils advance past the first round, creating uncertainty within the lineup. Currently sidelined with a lower-body injury, Hamilton recorded 40 points in 63 games this season.

Remarkably, Hamilton has been a consistent player, garnering 501 points throughout his career. Drafted ninth overall by the Boston Bruins in 2011, his tenure in the league includes successful stints with the Calgary Flames and Carolina Hurricanes before joining the Devils.

As the stakes rise, the focus sharpens on each matchup, reflecting the determination of teams aiming for postseason glory in a league where every point counts. Catch the latest updates on standings and team performances as this exciting season nears its end.