The Montreal Canadiens are vying for the second wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference, needing just one point against the Carolina Hurricanes to secure a playoff berth. The Columbus Blue Jackets remain in contention but must win in regulation against the New York Islanders to stay alive.
On Tuesday, the Minnesota Wild and St. Louis Blues secured playoff berths in the Western Conference, while the Toronto Maple Leafs clinched the Atlantic Division title. The NHL playoffs are set to begin on Saturday, April 19, with the Canadiens on the cusp of qualification.
The NHL standings reveal the playoff landscape, with key matchups taking shape for the Eastern and Western Conference brackets. Tiebreakers may come into play as the regular season concludes on Thursday, April 17, with several teams still in contention for postseason spots.