Avalanche Regain Top Spot in NHL Power Rankings

Playoff picture sharpens as regular season winds down

Mar. 30, 2026 at 7:35pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting an abstract hockey game, with players and the ice reduced to overlapping angular shapes in a vibrant color palette.The final stretch of the NHL regular season promises high-stakes drama as teams battle for playoff positioning and the chance to improve their fortunes through the draft.Philadelphia Today

With just 10 games left in the NHL regular season, the playoff picture is becoming clearer while the race for the first overall draft pick is also taking shape. Tight battles remain for the final postseason spots, with the Detroit Red Wings, Ottawa Senators, and Philadelphia Flyers all within two points of the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Why it matters

As the regular season reaches its conclusion, teams are jockeying for playoff positioning or vying to improve their draft lottery odds. The tight standings in the Eastern Conference mean several clubs are still in the hunt for the final playoff berths.

The details

The Colorado Avalanche have regained the top spot in the NHL power rankings, solidifying their position as the league's top team. Meanwhile, the Detroit Red Wings, Ottawa Senators, and Philadelphia Flyers are all within striking distance of the Columbus Blue Jackets for the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

  • The NHL regular season has just 10 games remaining.

The players

Colorado Avalanche

The NHL's top team, regaining the top spot in the power rankings.

Detroit Red Wings

Sitting two points behind the Columbus Blue Jackets for the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

Ottawa Senators

Sitting two points behind the Columbus Blue Jackets for the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

Philadelphia Flyers

Sitting two points behind the Columbus Blue Jackets for the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

Columbus Blue Jackets

Holding the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference, with the Red Wings, Senators, and Flyers in pursuit.

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The takeaway

As the NHL regular season reaches its climax, the race for playoff positioning and the draft lottery is intensifying, with several Eastern Conference teams battling for the final postseason berth.