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NHL 2026: Western Conference Playoff Picture & Moneypuck Odds
The race for playoff spots in the NHL's chaotic Western Conference is heating up as the regular season winds down.
Apr. 11, 2026 at 9:04am
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The chaotic race for Western Conference playoff spots is captured in a cubist, deconstructed illustration.Duluth TodayThe NHL's Western Conference, particularly the Pacific Division, is a complex and unpredictable race as teams vie for playoff spots. The Ducks, Edmonton, and Vegas are battling for the top two spots, while the Kings, Seattle, San Jose, and Nashville are in the mix for the final wild card spot. The Moneypuck model gives the Ducks a slight edge, but the odds are volatile, and a single win or loss can make a significant difference in the standings. The Kings' conditional pick is a wildcard that could impact the final standings, and the Pacific Division is a chaotic, unpredictable environment that is a joy to follow.
Why it matters
The race for playoff spots in the Western Conference is intense, with several teams fighting for the final wild card spot. The Kings' conditional pick is a strategic move that could make a significant difference in the final standings, and the unpredictable nature of the Pacific Division adds to the excitement and drama of the playoff race.
The details
The Moneypuck model, which simulates the rest of the season 100,000 times, gives the Ducks a slight edge over the other Pacific teams, with Edmonton and Vegas also in the running. However, the model's odds are volatile, and a single win or loss can make a significant difference in the standings. The Leafs, who play LA and San Jose in early April, have a chance to make a move, but they'll need to beat the Ducks tonight and hope for a Boston win over San Jose. The Bruins need to pull their socks up and beat San Jose in regulation, while Seattle faces the Avs, and Colorado needs to start building for the playoffs.
- The regular season is winding down, with the race for playoff spots intensifying.
- The Leafs play LA and San Jose in early April, which could impact the playoff picture.
- The Bruins need to beat San Jose in regulation to help their playoff chances.
The players
Ducks
A team in the Pacific Division that is currently in the top two spots in the Western Conference playoff race.
Edmonton
A team in the Pacific Division that is also in the running for a top two spot in the Western Conference playoff race.
Vegas
A team in the Pacific Division that is also in the running for a top two spot in the Western Conference playoff race.
Kings
A team in the Pacific Division that is in the mix for the final wild card spot in the Western Conference playoff race.
Seattle
A team in the Pacific Division that is in the mix for the final wild card spot in the Western Conference playoff race.
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
The race for playoff spots in the Western Conference, particularly the Pacific Division, is a fascinating and unpredictable one, with the Kings' conditional pick adding an extra layer of intrigue. The Moneypuck model provides insights, but the reality is that anything can happen in the final stretch of the season.
