NHL Playoff Picture 2026, Updated Bracket, Standings
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The top four teams are in action Sunday. Plus, updated playoff projections, draft lottery standings after a big Saturday.
SB Nation on MSN
NHL Standings Update: In the East, a game of musical chairs
Teams had crossed the 65-game mark in the past week and are roaring towards 70 games in the 2025-26 NHL season. It’s moving fast now as the league crunches in games to catch up from the Olympic pause.
The NHL trade deadline was March 6th, and a handful of players headed to playoff-bound teams. With less than 20 games remaining, certain teams are solidifying their playoff standings, while others are making a final push to claim a wild-card spot.
Before we go too deep, let’s get something clear. Outside of commissioner Gary Bettman and the Utah Mammoth, who could enjoy a cakewalk to the Western Conference Finals, everybody hates the NHL’s format for the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
The Mammoth play the Wild on Tuesday (8 p.m., ESPN+), hoping to tighten their grip. Here are full playoff projections, draft lottery standings and more.
SportsGrid on MSN
NHL Showdown: Avalanche vs. Stars – Who Leads the West?
Cam Stewart and Dan Sileo reflect on the NHL's Western Conference as the Colorado Avalanche and Dallas Stars continue to dominate and stoke intense rivalries.
In this week’s edition of the wild card race watch, we take a look at the surging Columbus Blue Jackets, as well as the tight race for the second spot in the Western Conference.
Here's what is on the line in each contest. Plus, updated playoff projections, draft lottery standings, more.