As the 2025-26 NHL season nears its end, the race for the playoffs is heating up, with teams falling into distinct tiers based on their chances. From those with nothing left to play for to those fighting for their playoff lives, the stretch run promises an exciting finish. Let's dive into the tiers and explore the stakes for each team.
Tier 1: Not Happening
These teams have all but accepted their fate and are looking towards the future. For the Chicago Blackhawks, it's about securing a high draft pick to add a dynamic forward to their roster. The New York Rangers, despite playing well post-Olympic break, are focused on developing their players and monitoring the progress of Gabe Perreault and Alexis Lafrenière. The New Jersey Devils, after a disappointing season, will have to make tough decisions about their management, including the future of GM Tom Fitzgerald and coach Sheldon Keefe.
The Florida Panthers, while technically still in the playoff race, are more concerned with keeping their first-round pick, which is top-10 protected. The Vancouver Canucks, firmly in last place, have 'pride to play for' as their only remaining motivation. Similarly, the Toronto Maple Leafs, having endured a disastrous season, are looking for a strong finish from Easton Cowan, an important developmental opportunity for the young player.
Lastly, the Calgary Flames, committed to rebuilding, are aiming for a top-three draft pick, which would be a significant step towards acquiring a game-changing player.
Tier 2: Long Shot
The Philadelphia Flyers, in the third year of their new leadership regime, are facing the possibility of a six-year playoff drought. A strong finish and impact from young players could provide a glimmer of hope for next season. The St. Louis Blues, despite being in transition, are never to be counted out, especially with their recent franchise-record winning streak. The Winnipeg Jets, with limited free agent appeal, must rely on draft picks to acquire top talent. Their focus is on whether their first-round pick will bring their next star player.
For the Washington Capitals, the final games are about getting a glimpse of the post-Ovechkin era. With the NHL's all-time leading goal scorer potentially retiring, the Capitals' playoff odds are slim, but their final games against Columbus and Pittsburgh could be significant.
Tier 3: Bubble Team
The Boston Bruins, despite a poor season last year, are trending upwards thanks to Marco Sturm's coaching and sound free agency pickups. The Columbus Blue Jackets, under Rick Bowness, have turned their season around and are now in the playoff chase. However, Bowness' future with the team is uncertain, making him a key free agent for the club. The Detroit Red Wings, with recent key injuries, are facing a 'playoffs-or-bust' scenario, as missing the playoffs for a 10th straight season could shake public confidence in their direction.
The Nashville Predators, with an uncertain future at the GM position, are fighting to sneak into the playoffs, which could be their last chance for a while. The Seattle Kraken, in their first season under Lane Lambert, have exceeded expectations with stellar defense and good goaltending. They have a real opportunity to earn their second playoff berth, despite a limited ceiling.
The Ottawa Senators need to make the playoffs to maintain their upward trajectory and entice players to commit long-term. The Los Angeles Kings, with a chance to sneak into the playoffs, aim to send their venerable captain and future Hall of Famer, Anže Kopitar, into retirement with a final postseason appearance.
The San Jose Sharks, defying expectations, are hanging around in the playoff race. Macklin Celebrini, a 19-year-old star, has carried the team and could boost his Hart Trophy argument with a playoff spotlight.
Tier 4: Looks Like a Good Bet
The New York Islanders, with a rookie sensation and a world-class goalie, are holding firm in the Metro standings but face a challenge from the Columbus Blue Jackets. The Vegas Golden Knights, despite a down year, are in position to win their fifth Pacific Division title in nine years, which would set up an easier path to the Western Conference final.
The Pittsburgh Penguins, who entered the season as favorites to land Gavin McKenna, are now on pace for over 100 points. A playoff appearance would give Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Kris Letang another chance to shine in the postseason. The Anaheim Ducks, with a shot at winning the Pacific Division, must get Mason McTavish going if they hope to win a playoff series.
The Utah Mammoth, with a nice cushion for the first wild-card spot, need to make the playoffs to prove that head coach André Tourigny is the right voice for their promising young core. The Montreal Canadiens, ahead of schedule in their rebuild, have a realistic chance for home ice in the first round, which would be a missed opportunity if they don't grasp it.
Tier 5: It's a Lock
The Buffalo Sabres, looking to end a league-record 14-year playoff drought, are battling for seeding down the stretch. The Carolina Hurricanes, with a big cushion atop the Eastern Conference, are preparing for the playoffs by securing the best seed possible and ensuring their players are healthy.
The Edmonton Oilers, despite losing Leon Draisaitl for the regular season, must make the playoffs after trading away major draft picks. The key question for fans is Draisaitl's availability for the playoffs. The Tampa Bay Lightning, despite recent struggles, are still in contention for the No. 1 seed and have an elite core to rely on.
The Dallas Stars, on a 14-0-1 run, are nipping at the heels of the Colorado Avalanche, with a path to a championship at stake. The Colorado Avalanche, meanwhile, are focused on avoiding a tough first-round matchup with the Minnesota Wild, who are primed to be a serious contender.
The Minnesota Wild, with a terrific season, hope to get past the first round for the first time in 11 years, but health and urgency are paramount concerns.
As the season draws to a close, these teams' fates will be decided, and the playoff picture will become clearer. The stretch run promises an exciting finish, with each team's performance carrying significant implications for their future.
