Did you notice the NHL standings recently? They added a new feature: “If Playoffs Started Today.” With just three weeks left in the NHL season, it’s getting serious. Teams are vying for playoff spots, and some matchups are shaping up to be more exciting than others.
Let’s explore the ten potential first-round matchups that could happen, focusing on those with at least a 10% chance based on the latest stats from HockeyStats.com.
10. Utah Mammoth vs. Anaheim Ducks
Odds: 61%
This would be the Mammoth’s first playoff appearance. It’s an intriguing clash of established Ducks versus the up-and-coming Mammoth. Home ice could lean in favor of the Ducks, but the Mammoth’s underdog status adds excitement.
9. Nashville Predators vs. Colorado Avalanche
Odds: 40.5%
In a David vs. Goliath scenario, the Predators are a surprising contender aiming to snag a playoff spot after a rocky season. Their recent surge adds a layer of drama to this matchup.
8. Buffalo Sabres vs. Boston Bruins
Odds: 21.2%
These two teams have a hefty history. Buffalo has surprised many this season, and facing off against Boston could yield some unpredictable outcomes, especially with a rookie coach on one side.
7. Detroit Red Wings vs. Tampa Bay Lightning
Odds: 11.4%
Their past encounters were tense battles. Younger Red Wings aim to establish themselves against a Lightning team with veteran experience. The stakes are high, particularly for GM Steve Yzerman.
6. Montreal Canadiens vs. Buffalo Sabres
Odds: 37.2%
Fans would enjoy a matchup steeped in rivalry history. Both teams boast young, dynamic rosters, promising an intense series steeped in energy and excitement.
5. Ottawa Senators vs. Buffalo Sabres
Odds: 23.6%
Despite fewer recent meetings, this rivalry is often overlooked. The Senators’ surprising rise could turn this into a fiercely competitive series.
4. Montreal Canadiens vs. Carolina Hurricanes
Odds: 16.5%
The Canadiens hold a slight advantage in their previous matchups. This matchup has the potential for major upsets and a showcase of two strong offenses.
3. Columbus Blue Jackets vs. Pittsburgh Penguins
Odds: 67%
In this storied rivalry, the Blue Jackets want to break free from their underdog status. With their recent winning streak, they’re eager to challenge the Penguins.
2. Vegas Golden Knights vs. Edmonton Oilers
Odds: 49.6%
With star players like Connor McDavid and Jack Eichel, the spotlight would be on this matchup. The stakes would be high, as an early playoff exit would be disastrous for either team.
1. Minnesota Wild vs. Dallas Stars
Odds: 98%
This is the most anticipated matchup. Two of the league’s top teams competing in round one? It doesn’t seem fair, but for fans, it promises excitement and intensity, with both teams having something to prove.
As we edge closer to the playoffs, the anticipation grows. Matchups that seemed unlikely earlier in the season are now within reach, stirring the excitement of fans and analysts alike. With years of rivalry history, sudden upsets, and star power, it’s shaping up to be an unforgettable postseason.
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Boston Bruins, Buffalo Sabres, Detroit Red Wings, Montreal Canadiens, Ottawa Senators, Tampa Bay Lightning, Carolina Hurricanes, Pittsburgh Penguins, Columbus Blue Jackets, Dallas Stars, Colorado Avalanche, Nashville Predators, Minnesota Wild, Edmonton Oilers, Utah Mammoth, Anaheim Ducks, Vegas Golden Knights, NHL
