The NHL 2026 playoffs are approaching, bringing excitement for teams and fans alike. The latest standings and possible playoff brackets are shaping up as the season nears its conclusion.
Current Standings Overview
As of March 21, 2026, the Nashville Predators have secured the second wild-card spot in the Western Conference. This comes after winning four of their last six games. They currently hold a one-point lead in their conference.
Key Standings
- Western Conference:
- Colorado Avalanche: 100 points
- Dallas Stars: 97 points
- Nashville Predators: 73 points (WC2)
- Utah Mammoth: 78 points (WC1)
- Eastern Conference:
- Carolina Hurricanes: 94 points
- Buffalo Sabres: 94 points
- Boston Bruins: 86 points (WC1)
- Detroit Red Wings: 84 points (WC2)
Upcoming Games
Several key NHL games are scheduled for Sunday, March 22, 2026. Notable matches include:
- Nashville Predators vs. Chicago Blackhawks
- Dallas Stars vs. Vegas Golden Knights
- Columbus Blue Jackets vs. New York Islanders
Playoff Scenarios and Tiebreakers
The playoffs intensify as teams vie for a chance to compete. Currently, the Dallas Stars can clinch a playoff spot with a victory over the Golden Knights.
Easter Conference Playoff Bracket
| Matchup | Teams |
|---|---|
| M1 vs WC2 | Carolina Hurricanes vs. Detroit Red Wings |
| M2 vs M3 | Pittsburgh Penguins vs. Columbus Blue Jackets |
| A1 vs WC1 | Buffalo Sabres vs. Boston Bruins |
| A2 vs A3 | Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Montreal Canadiens |
Western Conference Playoff Bracket
| Matchup | Teams |
|---|---|
| C1 vs WC2 | Colorado Avalanche vs. Nashville Predators |
| C2 vs C3 | Dallas Stars vs. Minnesota Wild |
| P1 vs WC1 | Anaheim Ducks vs. Utah Mammoth |
| P2 vs P3 | Edmonton Oilers vs. Vegas Golden Knights |
NHL Tiebreaker Procedures
Understanding the tiebreakers is critical in these final weeks of the season. Key tiebreakers include:
- Regulation wins
- Regulation and overtime wins (ROW)
- Total wins
- Head-to-head competition points
- Goal differential
- Total goals scored
Important Dates
The NHL regular season concludes on April 16, 2026. Following that, the Stanley Cup playoffs are set to commence on April 18.
As teams finalize their rosters and strategies, the excitement builds toward the NHL 2026 playoffs. Stay tuned to El-Balad for the latest updates and analysis.
