The Detroit Red Wings suffered a deflating 3–2 loss to the Ottawa Senators on Tuesday night, a result that carried significant implications in the tightly contested wild card race.
With the victory, Ottawa surged past multiple competitors and claimed the second wild card position previously held by the New York Islanders. New York, despite slipping, still remains just ahead of Detroit in the standings, adding further pressure on a Red Wings squad that has struggled to maintain its footing in recent weeks.
Detroit’s recent skid has been a major concern as since late January, the team has posted a disappointing 6-9-3 record over its last 18 games, a stretch that has seen its once promising playoff outlook steadily deteriorate. Earlier in the season, optimism surrounded the Red Wings’ postseason chances. According to MoneyPuck, their playoff odds sat near 80 percent heading into the Olympic break and peaked at 83.2 percent on February 28.
Playoff chances after the Pens-Rangers afternoon game. Playoff chances will update on the website several times per day for the rest of the season https://t.co/RbnckCLHNPpic.twitter.com/6FITuAS7yc
However, that confidence has since eroded as the Red Wings now find themselves with just a 45.8 per cent chance of making the playoffs, trailing closely behind the Islanders at 46.6 per cent. Meanwhile, the Boston Bruins have created some separation at 64.3 percent, and Ottawa’s recent surge has propelled them to a commanding 76.1 percent, leapfrogging the entire pack.
The road ahead offers little relief for Detroit with their remaining schedule appearing stacked with high caliber opponents, including the Buffalo Sabres, Pittsburgh Penguins, Minnesota Wild, Columbus Blue Jackets, and Tampa Bay Lightning, all games that carry must-win weight as the regular season winds down.
Despite the bleak trend, the situation is not yet beyond repair. A strong run in the coming games could quickly stabilize Detroit’s playoff chances and push them back into contention. But with time running short and competition intensifying, the margin for error has all but disappeared.
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PITTSBURGH, PA - MARCH 22: Frederik Andersen #31 of the Carolina Hurricanes makes a save in front of Sidney Crosby #87 of the Pittsburgh Penguins at PPG PAINTS Arena on March 22, 2026 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/NHLI via Getty Images) | NHLI via Getty Images
The NHL playoff race is reaching it’s peak this year, no where more than in the competitive and tight Eastern Conference. While the West is something of a pillow fight in the Pacific and a turtle race in general (Nashville is on a statistical pace for 89 points and currently holding a playoff spot), the East is a much more unforgiving place to be. The Islanders and Red Wings are currently on pace for 97 points and find themselves below the playoff line as of this morning.
Here’s the standings as of today.
It’s tough times in Detroit, the Red Wings are just 5-6-2 since play resumed after the Olympics and now in serious trouble with their playoff outlook. While Detroit’s season pace may be for 97 points, that is dropping by the game with their recent results in shambles. Ottawa, boasting a 10-2-2 record since the break, have now pulled ahead of Detroit.
It’s a similar story in the Metropolitan Division, where a run by the Columbus Blue Jackets (9-2-4) have overtaken the Penguins and Islanders in the standings as of this morning with 11 games to play, 10 for NYI.
Further down the line, any spoiler hopes for a last gasp run by Philadelphia and Washington took major hits with regulation losses last night. The four point swing in the Flyers/Blue Jackets game last night could have meant just a three point separation had the Flyers won last night. Instead, they lost and now are seven points behind Columbus and five points behind the playoff line, dealing a serious blow to any far-flung playoff hopes.
The Penguins have been in a mode of hanging on lately, their 17 games in March is an NHL high and presented a monumental challenge. They’ve had to do much of it without Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin. They have had some great moments lately – like an OT comeback win over Boston and a great performance against Colorado mixed in with some ugly defeats to Carolina, Vegas and the Avalanche. Monday’s upcoming game against NYI is looming absolutely massive for the potential fortunes of both teams.
Most of the models remain fairly bullish on Pittsburgh, in part due to the remaining schedule. The Pens have gotten through much of their toughest games (though Ottawa and Dallas are on the horizon) and now statistically have the 20th easiest strength of schedule based on points% of remaining opponents. Less than 10 days ago, Pittsburgh had the No. 1 toughest remaining schedule, which speaks to how many quality opponents they’ve dealt with recently – four of the Pens’ last five games have been played against Carolina or Colorado who make up two of the top three teams in the league. Pittsburgh negotiated that to a 1-2-1 record and soon will finish off the season with six games against non-playoff opponents (two against Florida and Washington, New Jersey and St. Louis).
On the other hand, the toughest remaining schedules in the whole league belong to: NYI, BOS, CBJ and OTT, direct competitors for the Penguins. Schedule strength only accounts for so much and is no guarantee of success, both NYI and Boston lost last night in what should have been games they needed results against Chicago and Toronto, respectively. Teams still have to play the games and get the results, though it’s preferable to have an easier path it also doesn’t bring any promises.
In that outlook, there’s some reason for optimism, the Pens have made it through the absolute toughest part of their schedule and found a way to pick up a few points and remain slightly above the fray. Soon they need to take advantage of what remains. That won’t be immediate with the upcoming games of playing in Ottawa and hosting Dallas in the coming days will present big challenges but relief could be coming after that.
Ultimately and easily enough for the Penguins, if they stay ahead of NYI AND Detroit then the Pens will make the playoffs. Should Columbus cool off a little and the Pens slip by them, it becomes an even easier proposition. Pittsburgh (with 29 regulation wins compared to 27 for Detroit and 26 for the Islanders) also figure to hold that tiebreaker over both clubs below them, so it could presumably even be more favorable since those teams actually have to gain more points in the standings to pass the Pens.
Interestingly enough, Pittsburgh plays NYI on Monday and then Detroit on Tuesday next week. Both of those games will present massive opportunities to deal blows to the opposition’s chances of being able to end up ahead of Pittsburgh by the end of the year. There still could be bigger games at the very end of the season for absolute ‘must win’ situations, but the upcoming games against NYI and DET are about as big as it gets for importance.
DETROIT, MICHIGAN - JANUARY 31: Erik Johnson, the former NHL defenseman and 2022 Stanley Cup champion for the Colorado Avalanche makes his on-air debut for the ESPN network. (Photo by Dave Reginek/NHLI via Getty Images) | NHLI via Getty Images
Though Colorado Avalanche fans tried to forget everything about the 7-2 loss against the Pittsburgh Penguins last week (and a win last night helps ease tgat memory), one positive was the Erik Johnson experience between the benches. The former Avalanche defenseman is flourishing in his new television career which seems to be a natural fit.
Erik Johnson has found a new love in retirement, working as a color analyst at ESPN.
He’s also already really, really good at it.
"I think he’s a TV superstar waiting to happen.”
"He brings out the best in everybody. That's why he's so good at it."https://t.co/N7PHGiYbsU
On that note, check out this video to go behind the scenes with Johnson and fellow former Avalanche defenseman Tyson Barrie as they discuss their recent retirement from the NHL and what’s next up for each of them.
Speaking of playing the Pittsburgh Penguins in that loss last week at Ball Arena, here is the tribute video for Sam Girard provided by the Avalanche.
As always, a look back at how the trade deadline helped shape the two best teams in hockey and their stretch run before the playoffs begin in April.
NEW for @TheAthletic, how the Avalanche and Stars approached the Central Division arms race before the deadline and the respect between GMs and organizations as both eye a Stanley Cup run ⤵️⤵️ https://t.co/ks1tKz30Um via @NYTimes
Charlie McAvoy is one of the best defensemen in the NHL, and he’s at the top of his game right now, ranking third among blueliners with 24 points over his last 20 games.
The Boston Bruins are putting all their eggs in his basket as they push for a playoff spot, which is why — even in a back-to-back — he's a priority target in my three NHL player props for tonight
img alt="Get a first bet encore up to $800 with the BET99 promo code COVERSNHL" width="100%" loading="lazy" src="https://img.covers.com/promo-articles/bet99nhlcreative2526.jpeg"Get a first bet encore up to $800 with BET99 bonus code COVERSNHL. (not available in Ontario)
Our best NHL player props for Wednesday, March 25
Take a look at our best bets and expert analysis below.
Prop #1: Charlie McAvoy Over 0.5 assists
-105 at BET99
Charlie McAvoy is on a torrid offensive run. He's piled up 24 points over his last 20 games, with 18 coming by way of assist.
He's playing a lot of minutes and serving as a driving force from the back end.
With the Bruins desperate for every point — especially after laying an egg against the Maple Leafs — they'll leave no stone unturned trying to get them. That means a ton of ice for McAvoy, back-to-back be damned.
He's excelled in those situations this season, assisting in six of the last seven while playing at least 24 minutes five times.
Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
Where to watch: TNT
Prop #2: Adam Fox Over 0.5 points
-115 at BET99
Adam Fox is one of the best offensive defensemen in the sport. Even in a down year for the New York Rangers, he’s still found a way to produce a point in 55% of his games, and 62% following a day of rest.
He's really ramped it up of late, finding the scoresheet in seven of his last nine contests — including against playoff-bound teams like Minnesota and Columbus.
Fox picked up a point in his last meeting with the Leafs and generated 5+ attempts in both games, indicating strong involvement in the offense.
He's produced 10 points over his last nine games while generating nearly a full attempt more than his season average. The Rangers have put more on his plate without Artemi Panarin, and he's responded well.
He's poised to find success tonight against the Maple Leafs, who rank dead-last in shots allowed and 29th in goals allowed this season.
Lafreniere has hit the scoresheet in five consecutive games vs. Bottom-12 teams in goals allowed, producing 10 points in total. That includes a three-point effort against the Leafs just a few weeks ago.
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change. Not intended for use in MA. Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
Tage Thompson is one of the best volume shooters in the NHL, ranking seventh in shot attempts and eighth in shots on target this year.
My Bruins vs. Sabres predictions expect his shooting opportunities to be plentiful against a fatigued Boston side that bleeds shots even at the best of times.
Let’s dive into my NHL picks for Wednesday, March 25, with puck drop from KeyBank Center set for 7:30 p.m. ET.
Bruins vs Sabres prediction
Bruins vs Sabres best bet: Tage Thompson Over 3.5 shots on goal (-105)
Tage Thompson is a Boston Bruins killer. He has recorded 4+ shots on goal in six consecutive games while averaging 6.16 per contest.
That includes two head-to-head meetings this season, which should come as no surprise given the Bruins rank 31st in shots allowed.
Thompson has also cleared 3.5 shots in eight of 11 home games against Bottom-10 shot suppression teams. The three Unders came in multi-goal victories vs. teams 27th or lower in the standings, leaving no reason for Thompson to push.
With first place in the Eastern Conference within reach, the Buffalo Sabres will lean heavily on Thompson in this matchup.
Bruins vs Sabres same-game parlay
Josh Doan has produced an average of 2.5 shots and cleared his line in 10 of 11 home games against Bottom-10 shot suppression teams. He has fared particularly well against the Bruins this season, generating 6+ shot attempts in both meetings.
Josh Norris is riding shotgun with Doan on a strong third line and also skates on the top power play, making him a prime candidate to hit the scoresheet. He has done so in four of five games this season following two days of rest.
Josh Doan has registered multiple shots on goal in 10 consecutive games. Find more NHL betting trends for Bruins vs. Sabres.
How to watch Bruins vs Sabres
Location
KeyBank Center, Buffalo, NY
Date
Wednesday, March 25, 2026
Puck drop
7:30 p.m. ET
TV
NESN, MSG-B
Bruins vs Sabres latest injuries
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change. Not intended for use in MA. Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
BUFFALO, NEW YORK - DECEMBER 27: Michael Kesselring #8 of the Buffalo Sabres battles for position to screen Joonas Korpisalo #70 of the Boston Bruins with Hampus Lindholm #27 during an NHL game on December 27, 2025 at KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Bill Wippert/NHLI via Getty Images) | NHLI via Getty Images
Just the facts
When: Tonight, 7:30 PM
Where: KeyBank Center – Buffalo, NY
How to follow: TNT, HBO Max, NESN, 98.5 The Sports Hub
Tage Thompson: 36G-36A-72PTS; Rasmus Dahlin: 15G-50A-65PTS; Alex Tuch: 29G-30A-59PTS
Alex Lyon: 20-8-4, 2.64 GAA, .912 save percentage
Game notes
After what was probably their worst team-wide effort of the calendar year at home against the Maple Leafs on Tuesday, the Bruins are right back at it on Wednesday night, visiting the Atlantic-leading Buffalo Sabres.
Yes, the “Atlantic-leading” Buffalo Sabres! After some fits and starts at the beginning of the season, the Sabres have been on an absolute tear of late. Prior to the weekend’s games, they were on a near-historic run of 32-6-2 in their last 40 games and they’re 8-1-1 in their last ten.
The last of those games, however, was a loss, a 6-5 OT loss in Anaheim on Sunday night. That game wrapped up Buffalo’s West Coast trip, so tonight’s home game will be their first in Buffalo since March 14.
It feels like it’s been forever since these two teams played, with the last match-up coming shortly after Christmas, a 4-1 Sabres win in Buffalo. Prior to that, they played twice at TD Garden in the span of three weeks in October, both of which ended up Bruins wins.
For the Bruins, they’ll be looking for a far better effort than the one we saw at TD Garden Tuesday night. That game saw the Bruins disconnected, discombobulated, dysfunctional, dis-whatever else you can think of. They managed to stay in the game mostly because the Leafs are bad, but if they play that way tonight, it’ll be over before the end of the second period.
Josh Doan, acquired from Utah in the JJ Peterka trade last June, has been excellent for Buffalo this season. The 24-year-old has 23G-24A-47PTS in 71 games, far eclipsing his previous best output for Arizona/Utah. Doan is one of a handful of Sabres who have contributed invaluable depth scoring this season, along with guys like Noah Ostlund (11G), Josh Norris (10G), Sam Carrick (9G), and Logan Stanley (9G).
Alex Lyon has started the majority of Buffalo’s games this season, including their last game in Anaheim. He’s 6-0-1 in his last seven starts.
Barring a change of heart from Marco Sturm, Joonas Korpisalo will start tonight for the Bruins. He started two of the three games against Buffalo this season, winning at TD Garden and losing in Buffalo.
For a team with such a potent offense (4th in the NHL in GF/G), the Sabres have a surprisingly average power play, just 16th in the league.
With last night’s loss, the B’s margin of error in the playoff push has essentially evaporated. They’re still in the first wild card spot, one point ahead of Ottawa. However, they’re also just one point ahead of the New York Islanders and two points ahead of Detroit, so…buckle up!
On the other side of the coin, they’re only two points behind Montreal too, so who knows.
There won’t be any schedule-watching tonight, as the only other game on tap is between the Maple Leafs and the New York Rangers. Let’s hope the Leafs make it two wins in a row.
A broadcast note: while this game will be broadcast on TNT, it should also be shown locally on NESN, per both the NHL website and a NESN broadcast schedule. While the Celtics are playing tonight as well, they got bumped to 105.7, so the B’s will be on The Sports Hub.
Welcome to this edition of the Vancouver Canucks post-game analytics report. This recurring deep dive breaks down the analytics behind each Canucks game as recorded by Natural Stat Trick. In this article, we look back on Vancouver’s most recent 5-3 loss to the Anaheim Ducks.
Despite falling on the scoresheet, the Canucks did win the analytics battle on Tuesday. Vancouver held a 32-25 even-strength scoring-chance advantage and won the even-strength high-danger scoring-chance battle 14-13. In the end, though, it wasn't enough as the Ducks skated away from Rogers Arena with a victory.
Looking at the heatmap, the Canucks struggled to protect the front of Kevin Lankinen's net. As for the offensive zone, Vancouver threw the puck at the net from everywhere. Overall, it was a high-event game with both teams testing the goaltenders as much as possible.
Vancouver Canucks vs. Anaheim Ducks, March 24, 2026, Natural Stat Trick
To wrap up Tuesday's loss, Jake DeBrusk had a strong night from an analytics perspective. During his 12:07 of even-strength ice time, the Canucks had a 7-2 shots advantage and won the even-strength scoring chances battle 8-4. DeBrusk also scored Vancouver's first goal and finished the game with four shots on net.
The Canucks wrap up their homestand on Thursday when they battle the L.A. Kings. Vancouver and L.A. will play three more times this season, with two being played at Rogers Arena. Game time is scheduled for 7:00 pm PT.
Mar 24, 2026; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Canucks forward Linus Karlsson (94) and forward Drew O'Connor (18) battle with Anaheim Ducks defenseman Radko Gudas (7) in the second period at Rogers Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images
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Mathieu Olivier (15), Zach Werenski (21), and Mason Marchment (17-GWG) provided the offense for the Blue Jackets in a 3-2 CBJ win over the Philadelphia Flyers on Tuesday night. Jet Greaves played lights out to earn his 24th win of the season.
This was a massive win for the Blue Jackets' playoff hopes. The Islanders, Penguins, and Bruins all lost in regulation to move the CBJ into second place in the Metro. The Hurricanes also lost and are just 9 points ahead of Columbus. While the Jackets probably won't catch Carolina, they now have a new target to aim for.
First Period - SOG 10-3 Flyers - No CBJ Goals
The first five minutes of the first period didn't have much action, with lots of back-and-forth action but very little offense. Jet Greaves made a massive breakaway stop on Owen Tippett to keep the game scoreless. The Jackets, to this point, haven't really been able to get any real shots on Goaltender Dan Vladař either.
At 12:23, the Flyers' Trevor Zegras was called for high-sticking Dante Fabbro to give the CBJ their first power play. But just a minute into the man advantage, Kirill Marchenko was called for hooking Noah Cates while on a shorthanded breakaway to give Cates a penalty shot. Jet Greaves made a massive save, though on the penalty shot, to keep the game scoreless. Columbus goalies have stopped 17 of the last 18 penalty shots against, going back to 2010.
Sean Couturier would put the Flyers up 1-0 at 17:07 into the first. The Flyers are carrying play at this point and aren't giving the Jackets anything to work with. After Couturier laid a big hit on Mason Marchment, he recovered to find himself in front of Jet Greaves for an easy goal.
Second Period - 11-7 Columbus - CBJ Goals: Olivier, Werenski
Mathieu Olivier scored his 15th goal of the season just 44 seconds into the period. He and Zach Werenski played a little tic-tac-toe to put one past Vladař to even the score.
Zach Werenski would score his 21st goal of the season less than two minutes later when Marchment and Severson fed the Norris candidate to put the Blue Jackets up 2-1. Zach Werenski came out of the locker room ready to put the team back in the win column.
With 7:09 left, Mathieu Olivier took a penalty for interfering with Noah Juulsen. He was flat out bigger and stronger than Juulsen and ended up in the box. The Jackets were able to kill it off, but not without a little anxiety and big saves from Jet Greaves.
With 2:46 left in the second, Christian Dvorak and Dante Fabbro started chuckin' knucks after Matvei Michkov and Fabbro exchanged pleasantries.
The period would end with the CBJ enjoying a 2-1 lead. This was a much better period for Columbus, and more of how they've been playing for the last two months.
Third Period - SOG 9-5 Philly - CBJ Goals: Marchment
With 15:22 left in the third period, Mason Marchment would score his 17th goal of the season. No one in the arena, including the refs, knew Marchment scored except Mason and the CBJ bench. They stopped play after about 30 seconds and announced the goal.
Adam Fantilli drew a power play when he took a high stick from the Flyers' Owen Tippett, giving the Jackets their second power play. The Flyers were able to kill it to keep the score 3-1 in favor of the CBJ.
Philly pulled Vladař with 3:01 left in the third period to try to cut the lead. Jamie Drysdale scored to make it 3-2 CBJ with 2:04 left in the third period.
After the last two minutes of extreme pressure, the Blue Jackets were able to hold off the pressing Flyers 3-2.
Final Stats
CBJ APP
Player Stats & Notes
Mathieu Olivier scored his 15th goal
Zach Werenski scored his 21st goal and recorded his 56th assist.
Mason Marchment scored his 17th goal and recorded his 19th assist.
Damon Severson picked up two assists.
Kirill Marchenko tallied his 34th assist. The assist is his 200th career point.
Adam Fantilli got his 32nd assist.
Team Stats
The Jackets went 0/3
The Columbus PK stopped the one Flyer power play.
Columbus won 46% of the faceoffs - 23/50
The Blue Jackets had 25 hits and 10 blocks.
Next Up For Columbus: The Blue Jackets travel to Montreal to take on the Canadiens on Thursday.
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Over the last few years, the Montreal Canadiens have often struggled against the Carolina Hurricanes, and Tuesday night’s tilt at the Bell Centre was no different. Martin St-Louis can keep his cards close to his chest when it comes to his lineup, all he wants, but it’s not going to make an iota of difference if the players he puts on the ice aren't ready to go when the puck drops.
After missing the last two games with an upper-body injury, Josh Anderson was back in the lineup, taking over from Joe Veleno. At the same time, the coach had elected to go back to Jakub Dobes in net, despite Jacob Fowler winning the last game. A wise decision considering the Czech netminder made 14 saves in the first frame while his team was largely “sleepskating” on the ice.
The first period, especially its first 12 minutes, was worrying for the Canadiens. It looked like the puck was a hot potato none of their players were comfortable handling; perhaps it had to do with the coaches' warning them about the Canes' intense, fast forecheck. Whenever they’d get the puck, they’d get rid of it in a hurry, often handing it right back to the visitors.
After 20 minutes, the shots were 16-4 Carolina, and had it not been for Dobes, the score would have been much worse than 2-1. The goalie was peppered with shots, and they were not easy ones either. The first goal came when Mike Matheson tried to block a shot from the blueline with his stick and deflected it past Dobes. As for the second goal, it came from Oliver Kapanen turning the puck over in the defensive zone, inexplicably sending it from the blueline to the slot where Jordan Staal was all alone. It was easy for the Canes’ captain to give his team a 2-0 lead.
Thankfully for the Finnish rookie, he made up for his mistake when he deflected a Jayden Struble shot past Frederik Anderson to put Montreal on the scoreboard later in the first period.
Speaking about the first frame, the coach explained:
You try to talk about it before the game, but you have to live it. We shot ourselves in the foot early with giveaways and penalties; it was hard to get momentum, but I feel we found our game toward the end of the first. We spoke about their pressure in between the first and the second, once again, about how the team could get through that. We were better in the third, but it’s not an easy team to play when you’re leading by one goal; you try to play with little calculated risk, and they’re in your face the whole time. You have to try to put pucks deep and capitalize on their aggressiveness; that’s how we were able to separate ourselves with Demidov’s goal. Then we had to close out the game, which isn’t easy against a team that shoots everything from everywhere.
- St-Louis on his team's game
Caufield Activated
As is often the case when Montreal is in trouble, Cole Caufield rose to the challenge, scoring the game-tying goal nearly six minutes into the second frame. The goal came just at the right time after Montreal failed to capitalize on two Hurricanes penalties, even though they enjoyed a 29-second five-on-three.
His goal seemed to jump-start the Habs, and it even looked like he had his 45th of the season less than four minutes later, but the puck ended up deflecting on Juraj Slafkovsky. Still, Caufield had an assist on that goal two, and his redirection of Noah Dobson’s slapshot was perfect. While the sniper is chasing the 50-goal mark, that goal was the big Slovak’s 28th of the season, and it’s looking increasingly likely that he will reach the 30-goal mark.
After 40 minutes, Montreal had a 3-2 lead while the Hurricanes led 26-15 in shots, but they were unable to get anything past Dobes in the middle Stanza.
Dobes’ Best Game Of The Season
Goaltending hasn’t been a force for the Canadiens this season, but since January, Dobes has found plenty of ways to win. Tonight, he went for the good old making a truckload of saves. St-Louis rarely speaks a lot about his goaltenders, but tonight, he gave the Czech netminder his due:
I feel he plays big; he’s confident, but I can’t speak to his technique. He’s been excellent tonight, especially with the start we had to our game; he made some big saves. You look at the attempted shots, it’s a team that shoots from everywhere, and that creates a lot of chaos; you have to be alert, and he was.
- St-Louis on Dobes' performance
The coach also added that his performance gave the team a lot of confidence and that he often does it. St-Louis’ decision to give him the next speaks volumes about how he feels about Dobes now. Earlier in the season, he didn’t hesitate to sit him even if he was doing well to try and get his number one netminder going, but now, he clearly sees that Dobes is the hot hand, and he doesn’t want to mess with that.
It feels like Dobes has finally earned the organization's respect despite competing with the former number one and the youngster generally regarded as the Canadiens’ goaltender of the future. His performances since the new year have forced the Habs not to skip his turn.
The Canadiens will have an optional skate at the Bell Centre tomorrow before getting back on the ice on Thursday night for one last home game before a five-game road trip. The Columbus Blue Jackets, who are currently battling for a playoff spot, will no doubt be desperate for the win, and the Canadiens will have to be ready from the get-go.
BOSTON — The Toronto Maple Leafs found themselves in familiar territory early Tuesday night, digging a hole with three penalties in the opening 25 minutes against the Boston Bruins. Despite trailing 1-0 after the first period and facing early trouble in the middle frame, the Leafs found a spark from a familiar source in Matthew Knies.
The turning point arrived when Knies flexed his size in the neutral zone, wrestling the puck away from Bruins defenseman Mason Lohrei before breaking free for a shorthanded breakaway. Knies beat Jeremy Swayman to knot the game at 1-1, an individual effort that served as the catalyst for one of the Leafs’ most complete performances in recent memory. Following the 4-2 victory, his teammates were quick to praise the rare blend of attributes the sophomore forward brings to the lineup.
“It always just impresses you when he pulls it off,” captain John Tavares said of Knies’ highlight-reel goal. “His ability to just be so strong and just how physically mature he is, he’s a beast. He’s a very unique player at his age to have that type of strength, and then after that to have the soft hands and the poise and touch to score a beauty like that. He’s got a nice package as a player. We’re obviously very lucky to have him.”
The shorthanded marker was Knies’ 19th of the campaign, and he later added an empty-netter to reach the 20-goal plateau for the first time. With 59 points in 69 games, the Arizona native continues to set new career highs across the board. The performance is particularly notable given Knies has been navigating a lingering knee injury. While some wondered if he might shut things down with the Leafs’ playoff positioning relatively secure, Knies has remained adamant that playing won’t aggravate the issue. Based on his showing at TD Garden, the injury isn’t slowing his production.
“Just the power he presents and strength in skating I thought he was really good all night for us. Did a lot of good things,” Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube said of Knies.
The game took a physical turn after Knies’ first goal when Nikita Zadorov leveled Tavares from behind. Rookie Easton Cowan didn’t hesitate to jump in for his captain, challenging the veteran defenseman. That grit continued into the third period when Dakota Joshua dropped the gloves with Zadorov, signaling a collective pushback from a Toronto squad that showed plenty of resolve.
Statistically, it was a dominant night for the visitors. The Leafs fired 35 shots on goal, their highest total since a shootout win over Vancouver, and outshot their opponent for the first time since March 5. Anthony Stolarz remained sharp in the crease, making 18 saves on 20 shots, including several high-danger stops of a difficult variety, to preserve the win for Toronto.
Mar 24, 2026; Dallas, Texas, USA; New Jersey Devils left wing Jesper Bratt (63) skates with the puck on a breakaway during the third period against the Dallas Stars at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images | Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Here are your links for today:
Devils Links
Plenty of goals once again. Jack Hughes scored two goals, and the Devils hung on for a 6-4 win over the Stars on Tuesday. [Devils NHL]
Well!
Sheldon Keefe says that Gritsyuk will have to be evaluated tomorrow, get some imaging done before they can determine the severity of a potential injury. #NJDevilshttps://t.co/RPfhCePmcf
After a solid stretch of the season, a look around the roster at some players who are rising and and trending down: [Infernal Access ($)]
“It’s too little too late, but the New Jersey Devils have finally opened up their offense. After struggling to score for much of this season, they’ve started lighting the lamp more often since the Olympics.” [Devils on the Rush ($)]
A look at the prospect pool: “The Devils’ pool lacks a top prospect up front, but they have a star goalie (as well as another who is intriguing), multiple legit D prospects and some peripheral forwards who could play games.” [The Athletic ($)]
“Anton Silayev, drafted 10th overall by the Devils in the 2024 NHL Draft, is currently battling with Nizhny Novgorod in the KHL playoffs. Once his post-season run comes to a close, the 6-foot-7 blueliner is expected to sign his entry-level contract with the Devils.” [The Fourth Period]
Hockey Links
“NHL goaltending is quickly becoming one of the most volatile positions in all major sports. Here’s some evidence to support that belief, along with possible explanations for why.” [The Athletic ($)]
“The New York Rangers were awarded an extra shot on goal on Tuesday as part of their 2-1 loss to the Ottawa Senators Monday night, bringing their total for the game up to 10. The additional shot helped the Rangers avoid the dubious record of being the first team in the salary-cap era to be held to under 10 shots on net in a game. The mark would have also been the fewest shots on goal allowed by the Senators in franchise history.” [TSN]
An impressive number for Paul Maurice:
Paul Maurice becomes just the second coach in NHL history to reach 2,000 games 👏 pic.twitter.com/vXlmiOCtzs
CLEVELAND, OH - FEBRUARY 27: Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins left wing Ville Koivunen (41) is congratulated by Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins defenseman Sebastian Aho (25), Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins center Tristan Broz (26), and Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins left wing Rutger McGroarty (2) after scoring a goal during the first period of the American Hockey League game between the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins and Cleveland Monsters on February 27, 2026, at Rocket Arena in Cleveland, OH. (Photo by Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
The Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins managed to win two out of three games on a road trip through Canada last week. WBSPenguins.com with the details on each game:
Wednesday, Mar. 18 – PENGUINS 1 at Laval 5 Gabe Klassen scored Wilkes-Barre/Scranton’s only goal in its first meeting with the North Division-leading Rocket. As a result, the Penguins have lost five in a row at Place Bell, with their last victory in Laval coming on Jan. 13, 2018.
Friday, Mar. 20 – PENGUINS 2 at Belleville 1 (SO) A 28-save night by Joel Blomqvist helped the Pens win a war of attrition against the Sens. Aidan McDonough logged a power-play goal in the middle frame, and Wilkes-Barre/Scranton went three-for-three in the shootout with strikes from McDonough, Klassen and Avery Hayes. Blomqvist denied the league’s top goal-scorer, Arthur Kaliyev, to earn his first AHL shootout win.
Sunday, Mar. 22 – PENGUINS 4 at Toronto 3 The Penguins constructed a commanding 4-0 lead, which proved to be important insurance after a third-period fright from the Marlies. Hayes and McDonough both secured one-goal, one-assist first periods, while Rafaël Harvey-Pinard lit the lamp twice, including the game-winner.
Perhaps word will trickle back to Pittsburgh that Avery Hayes scored a shootout goal on a nice forehand deke move. Hayes was unused by the NHL Penguins over the course of three potential shootouts in the NHL during games that he recently played in.
— Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins (@WBSPenguins) March 21, 2026
Wilkes will get another chance to see Laval (first place in the North Division) on Saturday at home and try to repay the favor from last week’s game. WBS then stays at home on Sunday for another meeting with Lehigh Valley.
Here was the lineup the WBS Pens used last game, it’s outdated already since Ville Koivunen has been called back up to Pittsburgh. Center Tristan Broz remains out with his undisclosed injury that has held him out for all of March.
— Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins (@WBSPenguins) March 22, 2026
Aidan McDonough, a 26-year old playing on an AHL contract this season, has been the most consistent player for Wilkes all year long. McDonaugh has an active four-game point streak (2G+3A) and recently surpassed Broz for the team lead in scoring this season, McDonough having notched 36 points in 57 games over Broz’s 34 points in 45 games. Koivunen (33 points in 29 games), Hayes (32 points in 39 games) and Rutger McGroarty (26 points in 25 games) all have spent enough time in Pittsburgh and/or injured to not quite be the AHL’s leading scorer.
The end of the season is drawing near, WBS only has nine more games to go before the playoffs start. They still look locked into second place, the most important number for the rest of the regular season is sitting at 14. That’s the magic number for any points gained by the Penguins or lost by the Charlotte Checkers to ensure that WBS secures the second position and gains a first-round bye in the playoffs, eventually having their opening playoff series against whomever comes out of the 3/6 divisional matchup.
PITTSBURGH, PA - MARCH 24: Colorado Avalanche left wing Gabriel Landeskog (92) skates with the puck against Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Parker Wotherspoon (28) during the third period in the NHL game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Colorado Avalanche on March 24, 2026, at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, PA. (Photo by Jeanine Leech/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Here are your Pens Points for this Wednesday morning…
The Pittsburgh Penguins hosted the Colorado Avalanche on Tuesday night at PPG Paints Arena. One week after the Penguins dispatched the Avalanche on their home ice, the Colorado hockey team returned the favor, pulling away early and defeating Pittsburgh 6-2. [Recap]
The Penguins received a mixed bag of injury news before the game. Evgeni Malkin missed the Avalanche game due to an undisclosed day-to-day injury, while defender Ryan Shea was cleared to return after missing Sunday’s clash. [PensBurgh]
After leaving against the Winnipeg Jets with an injury and missing Sunday’s contest against the Carolina Hurricanes, the aforementioned Shea was eager to return to the lineup on Tuesday, saying the timing was frustrating given how well he had been playing. [Trib Live]
Penguins prospect Harrison Brunicke remains focused on making the NHL roster, despite the up-and-down nature of the nine-game trial he received at the start of the season. He is using his time in juniors to continue on the upward trajectory. [Trib Live]
Penguins general manager Kyle Dubas says he has no plans to trade Erik Karlsson this summer. [TSN]
News and notes from around the NHL…
Connor McDavid clarified recent comments he made in support of Tampa Bay Lightning coach Jon Cooper, saying they were not meant as criticism of his own team; they were meant to compliment a strong opponent. [Sportsnet]
Florida Panthers head coach Paul Maurice made history on Tuesday night, joining Scotty Bowman by becoming the second coach in NHL history to coach 2,000 career regular-season games. [NHL]
Edmonton Oilers (35-28-9, in the Pacific Division) vs. Vegas Golden Knights (32-26-14, in the Pacific Division)
Paradise, Nevada; Thursday, 9:30 p.m. EDT
BOTTOM LINE: The Edmonton Oilers visit the Vegas Golden Knights after Connor McDavid's two-goal game against the Utah Mammoth in the Oilers' 5-2 win.
Vegas is 32-26-14 overall and 10-5-4 against the Pacific Division. The Golden Knights have a +five scoring differential, with 224 total goals scored and 219 allowed.
Edmonton is 11-5-3 against the Pacific Division and 35-28-9 overall. The Oilers have scored 250 total goals (3.5 per game) to rank third in the league.
The matchup Thursday is the third time these teams square off this season. The Oilers won 4-2 in the previous matchup.
TOP PERFORMERS: Mitchell Marner has 19 goals and 51 assists for the Golden Knights. Pavel Dorofeyev has five goals and four assists over the past 10 games.
McDavid has 40 goals and 78 assists for the Oilers. Zach Hyman has four goals and two assists over the past 10 games.
LAST 10 GAMES: Golden Knights: 3-7-0, averaging two goals, 3.4 assists, 4.4 penalties and 11.2 penalty minutes while giving up 2.4 goals per game.
Oilers: 5-4-1, averaging three goals, 4.7 assists, four penalties and 9.2 penalty minutes while giving up 3.4 goals per game.
INJURIES: Golden Knights: William Karlsson: out (lower body), Carter Hart: out (leg), Jonas Rondbjerg: out (lower body).
Oilers: Curtis Lazar: out (undisclosed), Leon Draisaitl: out (lower-body), Colton Dach: out (undisclosed), Trent Frederic: out (undisclosed), Mattias Janmark: out for season (undisclosed).
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
Chicago Blackhawks (27-31-13, in the Central Division) vs. Philadelphia Flyers (34-24-12, in the Metropolitan Division)
Philadelphia; Thursday, 7 p.m. EDT
BOTTOM LINE: The Philadelphia Flyers and the Chicago Blackhawks take the ice in a non-conference matchup.
Philadelphia has a 15-12-8 record at home and a 34-24-12 record overall. The Flyers have a 5-5-8 record in games decided by one goal.
Chicago has a 14-15-6 record in road games and a 27-31-13 record overall. The Blackhawks have gone 22-6-7 in games they score three or more goals.
The matchup Thursday is the second time these teams meet this season. The Flyers won 3-1 in the last meeting.
TOP PERFORMERS: Trevor Zegras has scored 22 goals with 34 assists for the Flyers. Owen Tippett has five goals and one assist over the last 10 games.
Tyler Bertuzzi has 29 goals and 23 assists for the Blackhawks. Frank Nazar has five goals and six assists over the last 10 games.
LAST 10 GAMES: Flyers: 6-3-1, averaging 2.4 goals, 4.1 assists, 4.6 penalties and 11 penalty minutes while giving up 2.4 goals per game.
Blackhawks: 4-3-3, averaging 2.4 goals, 4.1 assists, 3.9 penalties and 8.8 penalty minutes while giving up 3.1 goals per game.
INJURIES: Flyers: Rodrigo Abols: out (ankle), Tyson Foerster: out (arm).
Blackhawks: Shea Weber: out for season (ankle), Andrew Mangiapane: out (undisclosed), Oliver Moore: out (lower body), Sacha Boisvert: day to day (not injury related ), Matt Grzelcyk: out (upper-body).
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.
McAvoy Over 0.5 assists
Fox Over 0.5 points
