NHL Playoffs 2024: Bracket, Analysis & Race for Stanley Cup Contenders

As the NHL playoffs approach, the race for the Stanley Cup heats up with intriguing matchups and storylines across the league.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 10:09am

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The NHL playoff picture is sharpening with just weeks remaining. Tampa Bay's surge to the Eastern Conference's top seed headlines potential matchups, alongside intriguing battles brewing in the West, including a possible Pacific Division showdown between Anaheim and Edmonton. This analysis projects all eight first-round series, dissecting team strengths, weaknesses, and critical factors determining success.

Why it matters

The NHL playoffs are a crucible where experience, resilience, and a touch of luck determine success. While the Tampa Bay Lightning and Colorado Avalanche enter as clear favorites, the unpredictable nature of playoff hockey ensures that surprises are inevitable. The coming weeks will reveal which teams can rise to the occasion and contend for the Stanley Cup.

The details

Tampa Bay's ascension to the top of the Eastern Conference isn't a surprise, but the manner in which they've done it is noteworthy. Jon Cooper's system continues to maximize the output of a core that's seen it all. The addition of Corey Perry, a veteran presence from their 2021 championship run, signals a clear intent to address the emotional and physical toll of playoff hockey. However, their first-round series against Columbus presents a stylistic challenge. The Blue Jackets, despite their recent stumble, play a structured, defensive game that can frustrate Tampa Bay's offensive flow. The Lightning's power play, currently languishing at a subpar 17.2% efficiency, will need to improve significantly to exploit any opportunities. NHL Team Stats reveal a concerning trend: their shooting percentage on the power play has dropped nearly 5% in the last month.

  • As of March 30, 2026, the NHL playoff picture is sharpening with just weeks remaining.

The players

Nikita Kucherov

Tampa Bay Lightning forward. Hart Trophy odds continue to shorten, making him a top-tier fantasy performer with increased ownership in daily fantasy lineups.

Jeremy Swayman

Boston Bruins goaltender. His strong Goals Saved Above Expected (GSAx) makes him a streaming option in deeper fantasy leagues, especially during Boston's favorable home stretch.

Leon Draisaitl

Edmonton Oilers forward. His recovery from injury will dramatically elevate Edmonton's championship odds and Draisaitl's fantasy ceiling if he returns to full health.

Jon Cooper

Tampa Bay Lightning head coach. His system continues to maximize the output of the Lightning's veteran core.

Corey Perry

Tampa Bay Lightning forward. His addition as a veteran presence from the team's 2021 championship run signals the Lightning's intent to address the emotional and physical toll of playoff hockey.

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What they’re saying

“We've talked about embracing the pressure. This group is ready for the challenge.”

— Martin St. Louis, Montreal Canadiens head coach

What’s next

The NHL playoffs are set to begin in the coming weeks, with the first-round matchups and potential Stanley Cup contenders becoming clearer as the regular season winds down.

The takeaway

The upcoming NHL playoffs will be a true test of resilience, experience, and adaptability as teams vie for the coveted Stanley Cup. While the Lightning and Avalanche enter as favorites, the unpredictable nature of playoff hockey ensures that surprises and dark horses will emerge, making for an exciting and unpredictable postseason.