NHL Playoff Picture 2026, Latest Bracket, Standings
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Philly needs a win Friday -- and some help, too. Plus, full updated playoff projections after a 14-game night.
A handful of teams continue to jostle for playoff spots in the Eastern and Western Conferences, including teams just on the outside.
Cole Caufield is knocking on the door of 50 goals, Lane Hutson is a future Norris Trophy winner, Juraj Slafkovsky is realizing the potential that made him a No. 1 overall pick and rookie Ivan Demidov is a dynamic offensive threat. That's a pretty exciting collection of talent, and it doesn't even include Noah Dobson or rookie goalie Jacob Fowler.
With the 2025-26 season almost over, let's look at four NHL teams that have been big surprises by shooting up the standings.