NHL Confirms 2026 Stanley Cup Playoff Matchups as New Champion Guaranteed
Updated
Updated · CBS Sports · Apr 17
NHL Confirms 2026 Stanley Cup Playoff Matchups as New Champion Guaranteed
51 articles · Updated · CBS Sports · Apr 17
The NHL has announced the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs first-round matchups, with games set to begin on Saturday, April 18.
Key pairings include Dallas Stars vs. Minnesota Wild, Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Montreal Canadiens, and the Colorado Avalanche hosting the Los Angeles Kings.
This postseason sees the Florida Panthers absent after back-to-back championships, guaranteeing a new Stanley Cup winner for the first time since 2023.
With key players injured, which Stanley Cup contender is most vulnerable to a first-round upset?
Why is the NHL's top regular-season team being picked as a potential playoff flop?
Does the current playoff format unfairly eliminate the league's best teams too early?
After a 14-year wait, are the Sabres poised for a deep run or a quick exit?
Is the Stars vs. Wild series the real Stanley Cup Final of the first round?
Can a 19-year-old on a losing team truly be the NHL's most valuable player?