Stanley Cup Playoffs to Begin This Week

Stanley Cup Playoffs to Begin This Week

The 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs kick off this Saturday, April 18, following a thrilling NHL regular season.

nounStanley Cup Playoffs
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As the league's most exciting event, 16 teams will compete in best-of-seven series, aiming for hockey's ultimate prize.

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The defending champions, the Florida Panthers, have failed to qualify, marking a rare instance where a titleholder misses the postseason.

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nounchampion
nounFlorida Panthers
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Additionally, hockey fans in the New York metropolitan area will face a strange void, as none of their local teams made the cut for the first time since 1966.

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Meanwhile, the Colorado Avalanche enter as favorites after winning the Presidents' Trophy for the best regular-season record.

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While teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs miss out, the stage is set for a wide-open tournament.

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With so many fresh faces and powerhouses shifting, this year's postseason is truly anyone's game.

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🎉

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Stanley Cup Playoffs to Begin This Week | Ringoo