Only Eight Teams Remain in Stanley Cup Playoffs as Round 2 Approaches

NEW YORK, NY — The Stanley Cup Playoffs are nearing an exciting conclusion, with only eight teams remaining in contention for the championship. Following a thrilling first round, all four Eastern Conference series and one Western Conference series have concluded.

The Carolina Hurricanes, seeded second in the East, were the first team to advance to the conference semifinals after defeating the New York Rangers in five games. A series-clinching goal by Sebastian Aho propelled the Hurricanes forward.

They will face the Florida Panthers, who clinched their second consecutive playoff series by eliminating the Toronto Maple Leafs in five games. The Panthers, who are the Atlantic Division’s third seed, will continue their quest for a title against the first-seeded Boston Bruins, who won against the Tampa Bay Lightning in Round 1.

Additionally, the defending champion Colorado Avalanche reached the second round by defeating the Dallas Stars in six games. Meanwhile, the St. Louis Blues and Edmonton Oilers are also set to face off in their respective second-round matchup.

The NHL has yet to announce a start date for Round 2, but the last potential Game 7 of Round 1 is scheduled for Sunday, May 4. It is important to note that teams are not reseeded after the first round.

With several key matchups lined up, fans eagerly await further developments as the teams prepare for the next stage of the playoffs.