With the start of the 2026 NHL playoffs coming up very soon there are many new headlines and different stories that will make these playoffs memorable.
Welcome back, Buffalo
Buffalo makes the playoffs for the first time since 2011 which was the longest active drought. The Sabres return as the Atlantic Division regular season winners and it is their first division title since 2009. They finished with 109 points this season which is second in the whole Eastern conference. Buffalo is back despite being last in the East on December 8th. Since then they have gone on a 39-9-5 run to win the division.
Crosby, Malkin, Letang
The Penguins are back in the playoffs despite being projected to finish last in the whole league. The powerhouse Penguin trio has already won 3 Cups and are looking for the fourth. This is the 16th time since 2008 that the Penguins are in the playoffs. It is their 20th season as teammates and is the longest tenured trio in all North American Professional Sports.
Third times the charm?
Connor McDavid and the Edmonton Oilers are hoping to be able to finish the job this season. The Oilers have made it to the Stanley Cup Final the past two seasons only to lose to the Panthers. McDavid and the Oilers have a long way to go before another chance at the Cup. They start their playoffs against Anaheim and hope it’s a good way to begin their path.
Avalanche look to break the Presidents Trophy Curse
The Avalanche have won the Presidents Trophy as they won the league for the 4th time in franchise history. This season was historic as they tied the most regular season wins all time. But the problem ahead is that only 8 of the 37 past league winners have won the Stanley Cup. But if any group is destined to break the course then the Colorado Avalanche could do it.
The playoffs kick off Saturday the 18th and will feature three games. This is the best times of year to watch the best post season in major sports.
