Stanley Cup Playoffs Set to Begin as Teams Battle for Glory

ARLINGTON, Va. — The Stanley Cup playoffs are ready to ignite this weekend as 16 teams vie for the historic trophy. The playoff field is nearly finalized, with the first round matchups now confirmed and just one spot remaining for the Eastern Conference wild card.

The Washington Capitals have secured the top seed in the East and await their first-round opponent, expected to be the Montreal Canadiens. However, the Canadiens are still in contention for the final playoff spot after a recent overtime loss against the Chicago Blackhawks, leaving the Columbus Blue Jackets hopeful for a chance with a must-win final game.

In the Western Conference, the playoff picture is complete following Tuesday’s clinching of berths by the Minnesota Wild and St. Louis Blues. The Winnipeg Jets have also made history by claiming the Presidents' Trophy for the first time, solidifying their position as the top seed in the West.

A total of 16 teams will compete, and updates on the playoff race will be provided daily by CBS Sports as the postseason approaches. The playoffs will officially begin on April 19.

The Capitals can secure home-ice advantage throughout the Eastern Conference playoffs with a victory against the Carolina Hurricanes at 7:30 p.m. ET. If they win, the Canes will still clinch the second seed in the Metropolitan Division with at least a point from the game.

In key matchups elsewhere, the Toronto Maple Leafs can clinch a top-two finish in the Atlantic Division with a Florida Panthers loss against the Detroit Red Wings. Additionally, the Dallas Stars need to secure at least one point against the Winnipeg Jets to guarantee a top-two finish in their division.

According to current playoff scenarios, the Ottawa Senators hold the first wild card spot but may face an uphill battle against the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Canadiens, anchored at the second wild card position, must defeat the Capitals to improve their chances further.

The playoff races are intensifying as the regular season enters its final days. Fans are encouraged to follow the remaining games closely, with implications for both playoff positioning and draft lottery standings. Each game is crucial as teams navigate their paths toward the coveted Stanley Cup.