Sport

NHL Playoffs: The Burning Questions Behind Every Series

2025-04-29

Author: William

The NHL playoffs are heating up! As we enter Day 11 of the action, thanks to the Ottawa Senators' thrilling overtime victory in Game 4, all 16 teams are still in contention.

What’s even more exciting? Every Western Conference series is set to stretch to at least six games, promising intense drama through the weekend.

Mark your calendars for Saturday and Sunday, when eight Game 7s are on the line. With the playoff parity at an all-time high, expect at least three or four series to push to the limit.

Eastern Conference Highlights
(1) Capitals vs. (8) Canadiens: Can the Habs Pull Off Another Upset?

With the Capitals leading the series 3-1, the question looms: do the injury-plagued Canadiens have one more underdog miracle left in them? The buzz around Montreal has been palpable, as rookie sensation Jakub Dobes steps in amidst Sam Montembeault's injury. But can young Dobes deliver three consecutive wins against the formidable Capitals?

Tension is also high with shutdown defender Alexandre Carrier potentially sidelined after a heavy hit from Tom Wilson. The Habs will need all hands on deck to fight back against Washington’s formidable offense.

(2) Maple Leafs vs. (6) Senators: A New Leaf?

The Maple Leafs hold a 3-1 lead, yet there’s a palpable anxiety in Toronto. The team has blown past series in the past, and losing Game 4 has fans on edge. New coach Craig Berube has brought fresh energy, but can the seasoned roster truly shake off their historical playoff ghosts?

Give props to the Senators for pushing this series to overtime in three of their games, showcasing a young and scrappy team that refuses to back down. If the Leafs can secure a win in Game 5, they could finally quiet the doubters.

(5) Panthers vs. (3) Lightning: Can Tampa Find Its Spark?

Leading 3-1, the Panthers have stifled the Lightning’s high-octane offense. After a disappointing 4-2 loss in Game 4, Tampa's struggles to capitalize on power plays are evident. Can they regain their scoring prowess, especially with injuries piling up?

The rivalry has turned physical, with dangerous hits heightening tensions. The Panthers, nicknamed 'The Butchers', have seen star goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky outplaying his opponent, adding to Tampa's woes.

(4) Hurricanes vs. (7) Devils: Will Andersen’s Injury Derail Carolina?

The Hurricanes lead 3-1, exploiting the Devils' injury woes. But with Freddie Andersen's potential absence after a collision, Carolina's playoff ambitions may hinge on the performance of backup Pyotr Kochetkov.

Western Conference Highlights
(1) Jets vs. (8) Blues: Can Hellebuyck Find His Form?

Tied at 2-2, Jets goalie Connor Hellebuyck is under scrutiny, struggling with a dismal save percentage in the postseason. If he can’t elevate his game, the surging Blues may pull off one of the biggest upsets of the playoffs.

(2) Golden Knights vs. (7) Wild: Is an Upset Brewing?

The series is tied 2-2 and the Wild are proving they can compete. With star players like Kirill Kaprizov shining brightly, can Minnesota continue this momentum against a well-performed Vegas team?

(3) Stars vs. (5) Avalanche: Will Heiskanen's Return Tip the Scales?

Dallas leads the series 3-2 and may soon welcome back key defender Miro Heiskanen. His presence could prove vital as the Stars seek to solidify their lead in this evenly matched series.

(4) Kings vs. (6) Oilers: Can LA Contain Edmonton’s Stars?

In a fiercely contested 2-2 series, the Kings must find a way to neutralize the Oilers’ dynamic trio—Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Evan Bouchard—which has dominated at even strength. This series has all the makings of a thrilling showdown, ending in dramatic fashion.

With the playoffs reaching a critical juncture, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Stay tuned as this electrifying journey unfolds!