NHL Power Rankings: New 1-32 poll, most important games left

With fewer than 10 games left for all teams, here's what matchups matter the most.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 11:30am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting an intense hockey game, with players and the puck fractured into overlapping angular shapes in a vibrant color palette of blues, reds, and yellows.As the NHL regular season winds down, key matchups will have an outsized impact on playoff positioning and the draft lottery.Chicago Today

There are fewer than 14 days left in the 2025-26 NHL regular season, and each team has fewer than 10 games remaining. Each game on the slate takes on additional importance, but there are specific matchups that will have an outsized impact on the playoff races (and the draft lottery standings). As part of this week's updated set of ESPN NHL Power Rankings, we've identified the most important game left for all 32 teams.

Why it matters

With the playoffs and draft lottery positions still up for grabs, these late-season matchups will be crucial in determining the final standings and postseason seedings. Teams fighting for playoff spots or jockeying for draft position will be looking to gain ground in these key games.

The details

The article breaks down the most important remaining game for each of the 32 NHL teams, analyzing the playoff implications and storylines behind these crucial matchups. It covers games between top contenders, divisional rivals, and teams battling for the final playoff spots or draft lottery positioning.

  • There are fewer than 14 days left in the 2025-26 NHL regular season.
  • Each team has fewer than 10 games remaining.

The players

Alex Ovechkin

A longtime star for the Washington Capitals who may be playing in his final NHL season.

Sidney Crosby

The longtime rival of Alex Ovechkin, who could face off against him for potentially the last time.

Nazem Kadri

A former Calgary Flames player who was traded to the Colorado Avalanche and will be facing his former team for the first time.

Igor Shesterkin

The franchise goaltender for the New York Rangers who recently got into a fight, showing the team's competitive spirit despite being eliminated from playoff contention.

Gavin McKenna

A highly touted prospect who the Vancouver Canucks, owners of the worst record in the league, hope to select with the potential first overall pick in the upcoming draft.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.