April 17, 2026

The Chase for the Cup Begins! | 2026 NHL Playoffs Preview

3 hours 15 minutes

The 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs are finally here! In this full preview, we break down every first-round matchup, key storylines, and our bold predictions for who will hoist the Cup this spring.

From the powerhouse Colorado Avalanche and Carolina Hurricanes to potential upsets and Cinderella runs, we cover the entire bracket — including Eastern Conference favorites like the Hurricanes, Sabres, and Lightning, plus Western threats like the Stars and more. As New York hockey fans, we also dive into what this postseason means for the Rangers, Devils and Islanders rebuilding efforts, and why the 2026 playoffs could deliver chaos, overtime thrillers, and unforgettable moments.

Join our Stanley Cup Playoff Bracket!

league name: BAH Stanley Cup Playoffs2026

https://bracketchallenge.nhl.com/en/leagues/38987

Chapters:

0:00 Intro

3:14 Rangers locked into 3rd best NHL Lottery Odds26:08 Devils Hire Sunny Mehta41:30 5 Burning Playoffs Questions1:10:00 Eastern Conference Breakdown

1:58:00 Western Conference Breakdown

2:37:00 Big Apple Hockey Takeaways

Who’s your pick to win the 2026 Stanley Cup? Drop your bracket in the comments below! Don’t forget to LIKE if you’re hyped for the playoffs,

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For more Rangers coverage:

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Follow Anthony LaRocco on X: @ALaRocco0801

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By Marc Williams / John Filkowski / Anthony LaRocco

3.9

1919 ratings