Pittsburgh Penguins defensive prospect Harrison Brunicke will finish his 2025-26 season with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins.
Brunicke was assigned to WBS on Saturday morning after his junior season with the WHL's Kamloops Blazers ended this week. Brunicke finished the year with two goals and 24 points in 24 games before compiling one point in four playoff games.
He started the year with the Penguins after making the team out of training camp. He scored his first NHL goal against the New York Islanders on Oct. 9 and played in nine games for the Penguins before he was sent back to Kamloops.
Late in regulation Thursday - very late in regulation - against the Tampa Bay Lightning, the Pittsburgh Penguins were awarded a power play opportunity despite trailing 6-2 with the game out of reach at that point.
For the most part, the Penguins' best players weren't out on the ice. At this juncture, almost everyone had already checked out and was clearly looking ahead to the next one.
Well, almost everyone.
On that power play and with just 0.8 seconds on the clock, forward Egor Chinakhov gathered the puck in the slot area and released an 82.9 mph wrister that beat Andrei Vasilevskiy top-shelf and allowed Pittsburgh to go home on with a better taste in their mouths. It also gave Chinakhov 20 goals for the first time in his NHL career - with 17 of those coming as a Penguin - and after casually, angrily, and effortlessly flinging that vulcanized piece of rubber into the net, he barely even flinched as he headed back to the bench and took a seat without a lick of celebration.
Can someone provide a logical reason as to why this guy isn’t on the first power-play unit?
Since 87 has come back and Chinakhov got bumped to PP2, the Pens have had 22 opportunities through eight games. They are 3/22 (one on a 5 on 3). 13.6%.
For Chinakhov, 82.9 mph is a pretty regular occurrence - and, according to NHL Edge data, it's actually below his average shot speed of 83.59 mph, which is 99th percentile in the league - but it's almost daily at this point that he shoots at least one puck 90 mph-plus. In fact, earlier in the period, Chinakhov released a 91.06 mph wrister, and this was after a first period in which he scored a beautiful goal on the backhand.
And that's nowhere close to his season-high, ridiculous 99.03 mph wrister that he shot as a member of the Columbus Blue Jackets on Nov. 22, or two shots against the Dallas Stars on Mar. 28 that registered at 98.61 and 95.17.
At this point, everyone - fans, teammates, coaches, and media alike - is aware of how lethal a weapon Chinakhov possesses with his shot, which is quite literally one of the very best in the NHL. His teammates' eyes light up when you ask about it, and they usually crack a smile, too. That asset alone could make him a solid middle-six option on any team, barring that he scores at a relatively high rate.
But that's the thing with Chinakhov: It's not just the shot. He's also tapping more into his playmaking ability in minutes alongside Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin, who are more than capable of finishing plays on their own. It's his smarts, as he never makes bad line changes, is always in the right position to make plays, and knows how to expose the danger areas to create chances for himself and his teammates.
It's also his defensive capabilities, as he's almost always the first forward on the backcheck, he's the first guy up to cover the point on a defensive pinch, and he's keen in using his stick detail and ability to read plays to disrupt. And, then, there's his speed, which is a huge asset to his overall game in all three zones. His forechecking isn't lacking, either, as he fairly consistently wins puck battles and forces the opposition into defensive zone mistakes.
The fact of the matter is that the Penguins didn't get their hands on a one-dimensional goal-scorer. Again, that alone would be enough to elevate him to near-star status if he would be able to maximize that skill. He has 17 goals and 30 points in 38 games since joining the Penguins, and that production is top-five on the team during his tenure.
Instead, they seem to have gotten their hands on an elite goal-scorer with the hockey IQ, puck skills, and speed to be an elite top-line option on the wing.
Of course, making proclamations about a 25-year-old former first-round pick (21st overall in 2020) who has never produced to this extent, has struggled to remain healthy, and needed a change of scenery after a very rough start with his former team (three goals and six points in 29 games) is, typically, doing a bit too much.
Usually, there is some underlying reason that these kinds of players fail to flourish in a sustained manner. They peak after their initial introduction to a new environment, and they revert back to the old, standard version of themselves.
But something feels different with Chinakhov. And it certainly has a lot to do with those aforementioned details in his game. But it's also easy to tell when a player has instant chemistry with certain players and fits into a team's system, and there is skill involved as far as the ability to play with elite playmakers in the NHL.
Jan 15, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins right wing Egor Chinakhov (59) celebrates his goal with Pittsburgh Penguins center Evgeni Malkin (71) and center Tommy Novak (18) against the Philadelphia Flyers during the second period at PPG Paints Arena. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
Now, he is on a top line with Crosby, and he hasn't missed a beat, putting up three goals and four points in the three games he's been 87's flank. And he had a million chances to score in an 8-3 rout of the New York Islanders as well - when he was one of three players who failed to register a point - hitting iron a few times and having three additional dangerous shots on goal.
The Penguins have found a way to unlock a version of Chinakhov that was probably always there but just never quite broke through. Head coach Dan Muse and the rest of the Penguins' coaching staff is known for their individualized approach to coaching, and they don't try to force players into being something they're not. A prime example is Erik Karlsson, who struggled to adapt and play at optimal capacity for two seasons under a different coaching staff and who is thriving under a new one that unleashes him and allows to be the version of the player who has won three Norris Trophies.
In Pittsburgh, Chinakhov isn't buried in bottom-six minutes. He's not being asked to play in roles that don't suit him. He's thriving in a role that plays to his strengths and allows him to, simply, be himself.
And if the Penguins can re-sign the restricted free agent this summer continue to get this version of Chinakhov - the one who is scoring at a 37-goal, 65-point pace with, potentially, an even higher level to reach - they might just have a budding star on their hands.
The Pittsburgh Penguins will welcome the Florida Panthers to Pittsburgh for the first half of a back-to-back on Saturday. The two teams will play again in Pittsburgh on Sunday.
It's the type of back-to-back that you don't see super often on the schedule, but that's how it shook out for this season. These two teams met for the first time back on Oct. 23, with the Penguins winning 5-3.
The Penguins had a 3-1 lead through two periods before doing enough in the third period to secure the win.
The Panthers had a much different lineup in that game than they do now. They're currently without Aleksander Barkov, Anton Lundell, Brad Marchand, Sam Reinhart, Aaron Ekblad, Evan Rodrigues, Dmitry Kulikov, Niko Mikkola, and Jonah Gadjovich. Of those players, Kulikov could return this weekend.
Despite their injury-riddled season, the Panthers have played well this week, beating the Ottawa Senators and Boston Bruins. They'll look to play spoiler against a Penguins team that is fighting to get into the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
The Panthers still have Sam Bennett, who has compiled 26 goals and 57 points in 72 games this year. Carter Verhaeghe has also been good with 23 goals and 53 points in 73 games. Don't forget about Matthew Tkachuk, too. He has 13 goals and 31 points in 28 games since coming back from injury.
Goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky will start in at least one of the two games this weekend. He has recorded 27 wins, a 2.96 goals-against average, and a .881 save percentage this year.
Here's a look at the projected Penguins' lineup:
Forwards
Chinakhov-Crosby-Rust
Novak-Kindel-Malkin
Mantha-Rakell-Brazeau
Soderblom-Dewar-Acciari
Defensive pairs
Wotherspoon-Karlsson
Girard-Letang
Shea-Clifton
Penguins head coach Dan Muse will announce a starting goaltender when he talks to the media at 3 p.m. ET.
Puck drop is set for 5 p.m. ET on SportsNet Pittsburgh. Fans can also listen to the game on 105.9 'The X.'
Connor McDavid and the Edmonton Oilers have been the Vegas Golden Knights’ kryptonite over the past few years, and I’m expecting another big outing from Edmonton’s captain tonight.
With massive playoff implications on the line for both teams, here are my free Oilers vs. Golden Knights predictions and NHL picks for Saturday, April 4.
Golden Knights vs Oilers prediction
Golden Knights vs Oilers best bet: Connor McDavid Over 1.5 points (-120)
The Edmonton Oilers are rolling right now, riding a five-game winning streak during which they’ve outscored their opponents 19-8.
A big part of the team's success has been Connor McDavid, who has compiled 10 points in those five games, including three multi-point nights.
McDavid has also posted multi-point efforts in three straight games against the Vegas Golden Knights, including a three-point outing last week on March 26.
Vegas' goaltending has been struggling lately as well, posting a measly .863 save percentage over their last five games.
Golden Knights vs Oilers same-game parlay
Evan Bouchard to get an assist is an SGP staple at this point. The Oilers' blueliner leads all NHL defensemen with 87 points, 67 of which are assists. He’s also registered 1+ assists in 15 of his last 19 games.
For my final leg, I’ll take the Oilers on the money line. Edmonton has won five straight meetings against Vegas and nine of the last 10 between these two clubs.
Golden Knights vs Oilers SGP
Connor McDavid Over 1.5 points
Evan Bouchard Over 0.5 assists
Oilers moneyline
Golden Knights vs Oilers odds
Moneyline: Golden Knights -105 | Oilers -115
Puck Line: Golden Knights +1.5 (-250) | Oilers -1.5 (+205)
Over/Under: Over 6.5 (-110) | Under 6.5 (-110)
Golden Knights vs Oilers trend
Edmonton has covered the puck line in its last five games (+6.15 Units / 87% ROI).Find more NHL betting trends for Golden Knights vs. Oilers.
How to watch Golden Knights vs Oilers
Location
Rogers Place, Edmonton, AB
Date
Saturday, April 4, 2026
Puck drop
10:00 p.m. ET
TV
Sportsnet
Golden Knights vs Oilers 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.
The Calgary Flames continue a lengthy six-game road trip tonight when they visit the Anaheim Ducks at the Honda Center.
Both clubs have been skating in high-scoring games of late, and I’m predicting more fireworks in my Flames vs. Ducks predictions and NHL picks for Saturday, April 4.
Flames vs Ducks prediction
Flames vs Ducks best bet: Over 6.5 (-115)
Defense has not been the strong suit for either team this season, with the Anaheim Ducks ranking 30th in goals against per game (3.50) and the Calgary Flames sitting 24th (3.16).
Anaheim enters Saturday on a four-game losing skid, allowing 4+ goals in each of those games. The Ducks’ last three games have cashed the Over and featured at least seven total goals.
Meanwhile, the Flames have hit the Over in three straight as well, with each of those contests featuring 9+ total tallies.
Anaheim has cashed the Over in 59% of its games this season — the highest rate in the NHL.
Flames vs Ducks same-game parlay
Yan Kuznetsov has developed into an important piece on the Flames' blueline during his first full NHL season, logging just over 20 minutes per matchup.
The 6-foot-4 defenseman has eclipsed 1.5 blocked shots in 11 of his last 14 games. The Ducks average 30.4 shots per contest— third-most in the NHL — so Kuznetsov should see plenty of rubber coming his way.
Flames vs Ducks SGP
Over 6.5
Yan Kuznetsov Over 1.5 blocked shots
Flames vs Ducks odds
Moneyline: Flames +130 | Ducks -150
Puck Line: Flames +1.5 (-180) | Ducks -1.5 (+155)
Over/Under: Over 6.5 (-120) | Under 6.5 (+100)
Flames vs Ducks trend
Calgary is 9-2 in its last 11 road meetings against Anaheim. Find more NHL betting trends for Flames vs. Ducks.
How to watch Flames vs Ducks
Location
Honda Center, Anaheim, CA
Date
Saturday, April 4, 2026
Puck drop
10:00 p.m. ET
TV
Sportsnet One
Flames vs Ducks 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.
The Montreal Canadiens will finish their five-game road trip on Saturday night when they take on the New Jersey Devils at Prudential Center. The two teams will face off twice this weekend, with their third meeting being held on Sunday at the Bell Centre. It’s been a disastrous season for Sheldon Keefe’s team; the Devils have yet to be mathematically eliminated from the playoffs, but with only 80 points to their name, it would take a miracle for them to get back in contention.
Still, the hosts have a 7-3-0 record in their last 10 games, and they have won the only duel between the two sides this season, 4-3 in overtime with Jakub Dobes in net. Meanwhile, the Canadiens have been in splendid form of late with an 8-2-0 record in their last 10 games, including a seven-game winning streak. Just like Thursday’s game against the New York Rangers, this confrontation has all the makings of a trap game.
Neither team has confirmed who they’ll start in net on Saturday, but given that they’re playing a back-to-back, both of their goalies should see some action. On the visitors’ side, Dobes has played the Devils twice and lost both games in overtime. He has a 3.82 goals-against average and a .889 save percentage against them. As for Jacob Fowler, he has yet to take them on.
At the other end of the ice, Jacob Markstrom has a 10-8-3 record against the Canadiens with a 2.25 GAA and a .922 SV, while former Hab Jake Allen is 5-5-0 with a 2.91 GAA and a .899 SV.
It will be interesting to see whether there are any changes to the Canadiens’ lineup. On Friday, the team held a rare practice these days, and both Kaiden Guhle and Phillip Danault were missing, receiving treatment rather than skating. Furthermore, Adam Engstrom, who was recently called up from the Laval Rocket in the wake of the Alexandre Carrier injury news, has yet to get a game. Still, both Jayden Struble and Arber Xhekaj have been playing well lately.
Mike Matheson is the Canadiens’ most productive player against the hosts with 21 points in 32 games, followed by Danault, who has 15 points in 20 games, and Brendan Gallagher, who has 13 points in 31 duels. All eyes will be on Cole Caufield, however, since the sniper is just one goal short of the 50-goal mark. He’s got nine points in 11 games against the Devils, and he could very well get there. Meanwhile, Nick Suzuki is six points shy of the century mark, but the Devils are not among his favorite victims; he has 10 points in 16 games. As for defenseman Lane Hutson, he only needs two points to reach the 75-point mark on the season, but he has been held off the scoresheet in five games against the Devils. Finally, Juraj Slafkovsky only needs a goal to have 30 this season, but he’s only scored once against them and has three points in eight games.
Meanwhile, the Devils have three players who have scored 21 points against the Canadiens: Jack Hughes (in 13 games), Jesper Bratt (in 21 games), and Dougie Hamilton (in 32 games). All three are healthy and ready to go, meaning the Habs will have to keep a close eye on them. It’s also worth noting that Timo Meir has 15 points in just 16 duels with Montreal.
While the Devils are struggling this season, they have won eight of the last 10 meetings between the two sides, including the last five games. The Habs’ last game in New Jersey was on January 17, 2024. Puck drop is set for 7:00 PM, and you can catch it on NHLN, MSG, SNE, CITY, and TVAS. Chris Rooney and Stephen Hiff are set to officiate, while James Tobias and Ryan Gibbons will be the linemen.
With 98 points in the standings, the Canadiens are hot on the tail of the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Buffalo Sabres, who both sit on 100 points. The two teams are also playing tonight, but if they lose to the Boston Bruins and the Washington Capitals, respectively, there could be a three-way tie in points. Tampa would, however, remain in first place as they have a game in hand on Buffalo and more regulation wins than the Canadiens, who would move up to second place, having played one less game than the Sabres.
The Florida Panthers are about to begin their final road trip of the season.
A long, injury-filled season is slowly nearing its end for Florida, but not before they play their final five road games in the span of eight days.
The fun starts on Saturday in Pittsburgh when the Panthers begin a rare weekend back-to-back against the same opponent, playing the Penguins in consecutive days.
This season has been something of a surprise regarding Pittsburgh, who wasn’t viewed as a major postseason threat heading into their campaign.
That hasn’t stopped the Pens from maintaining a playoff spot for basically the entire season.
Entering play Saturday, Pittsburgh is holding onto second place in the Metropolitan Division with 92 points. They’ve got a three-point edge on the third-place New York Islanders with a game in hand, so this weekend’s doubleheader with Florida could go a long way toward securing the Pens spot in the postseason dance.
Florida, meanwhile, has been hovering toward the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings for several weeks.
The big focus for many Panthers fans has become the team’s first-round selection at the 2026 NHL Draft, which they initially traded to the Chicago Blackhawaks at last season’s Trade Deadline in the dead that brough Seth Jones to Florida.
That pick is actually top-10 protected, meaning if the Panthers end up finishing in a position that has them slotted for a selection in the top 10 of this summer’s draft, they’ll keep it, and Chicago will instead get Florida’s 2027 first-rounder.
Currently, the Panthers are in the ninth-worst spot in the league standings, and that’s after pulling off consecutive home wins last week against the Ottawa Senators and Boston Bruins.
Now Florida has seven games remaining, with only the final two coming back on home ice. Five of those games will come against teams currently holding playoff spots (Pittsburgh, Montreal, Ottawa, Detroit), and the other two will come against clubs who are, similarly to Florida, jostling for draft position (Toronto and the New York Rangers).
Here are the Panthers projected lines and pairings for Saturday’s scuffle in Pittsburgh:
Photo caption: Oct 23, 2025; Sunrise, Florida, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins center Sidney Crosby (87) moves the puck against the Florida Panthers during the first period at Amerant Bank Arena. (Sam Navarro-Imagn Images)
Saturday morning brought a notable roster move for Detroit, as the Red Wings recalled young defenseman Axel Sandin-Pellikka from the Grand Rapids Griffins under emergency conditions.
Sandin-Pellikka, the 17th overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, began the season in Detroit and made his NHL debut early in the year. The 21-year-old appeared in 63 games with the Red Wings, registering six goals and 13 assists for 19 points. However, his campaign was not without challenges, as he posted a minus-21 rating while adjusting to the demands of the NHL level.
UPDATE: The #RedWings have recalled Axel Sandin-Pellikka from the AHL’s Grand Rapids Griffins under emergency conditions. pic.twitter.com/s2HLuwMkPu
— Detroit Red Wings (@DetroitRedWings) April 4, 2026
His role began to diminish following Detroit’s acquisition of veteran defenseman Justin Faulk. With increased competition on the blue line, Sandin-Pellikka saw his ice time reduced and was eventually overtaken in the lineup by Jacob Bernard-Docker. After being scratched for several games, the organization opted to send the Swedish defenseman to the American Hockey League to regain form and playing rhythm.
Since joining Grand Rapids, Sandin-Pellikka has made an immediate impact as the Gallivare native recorded three points in his first four games and scored his first AHL goal in his season debut on March 24 against the Milwaukee Admirals. His brief stint has been seen as an opportunity to log meaningful minutes and continue his development.
This is not his first experience with the Griffins as last spring, Sandin-Pellikka appeared in two regular-season games with the club, tallying one assist, and added three appearances during the Calder Cup Playoffs.
Despite the ups and downs of his rookie NHL season, the Red Wings remain optimistic about Sandin-Pellikka’s future. At just 21 years old, he is still viewed as a key piece of the organization’s long-term plans. For now, consistent playing time, whether in Detroit or Grand Rapids, will be central to his continued growth as a professional.
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The Los Angeles Kings are fighting for their playoff lives in every game from here on out, with seven games remaining in the regular season, and with all eyes surrounding how they will finish the season, they just broke two NHL records.
For a team that chose to fight for a playoff spot, rather than rebuild for draft capital and build for the future, it has no excuse for remaining in the middle of the pack year after year.
The path is right there for Los Angeles to make the playoffs, especially in one of the weakest divisions that we've ever seen in NHL history. Only one team in the division is above .500, and if you put all those teams in the Eastern Conference, they wouldn't even be close to the playoff picture.
In reality, forcing overtime can be a good thing for the most part because it shows the team never quits and shows resilience. It means a team is battling back, staying competitive, and earning at least a point in tight contests.
But when those games constantly end in losses, the narrative shifts. The 19 overtime defeats aren't just bad luck; it's a pattern that continues to plague their season.
Thirty overtime games represent a massive sample size, and losing nearly two-thirds of those points to deeper issues. At this point of the season, it's been very clear that the Kings can't execute in the clutch, especially in the game's most critical moments.
A Mental Hurdle?
Beyond all the numbers and performances in the extra periods, there's also the psychological factor.
Losing in overtime maybe 10 times or a little more is a part of the game, but losing 19 times? That starts to linger and can affect a player's decision-making, leading them to try to make the perfect play instead of the right one.
Confidence in those moments becomes fragile, and it's been tested repeatedly for the Kings. We just saw last night's game against the Predators go eight rounds of a shootout because the Kings couldn't score on the 1-on-1, shooting the puck either off the crossbar or too high over the net.
The inability to close out games affects the identity of who the Kings are and defines Los Angeles now as a team that struggles in high-leverage situations.
Costly Points in a Tight Race
Yes, the Kings earned a point by reaching overtime, but the extra point they could've earned with simply a win in each of those 19 games adds up quickly. Take yesterday again for a fact: Los Angeles stormed back and tied the game, and if they had won, it would have left them just three points behind the Golden Knights for the third seed in the division.
Now, instead of inching closer, they're five points back and are in a three-way tie with the Predators and Sharks for the final playoff spot, instead of a two-point lead if they won.
Flip even a handful of those losses into wins, and the outlook of the season changes dramatically.
Moving Forward
There is a silver lining in all of this. The Kings are constantly putting themselves in positions to win against any team in the league. That's not something every team can say. But until they prove they can finish, that strength will continue to feel like a weakness.
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The Buffalo Sabres will try again to clinch a playoff spot and end their 14-season postseason drought.
The Sabres lost on Thursday in their first attempt, but if they beat the Washington Capitals on Saturday, April 4, they will end the NHL's longest drought. They would also clinch before the game starts if the Red Wings lose their afternoon game in regulation.
In addition to making the playoffs, the Sabres could reclaim the Atlantic Division lead if they gain one more point than the Tampa Bay Lightning. The Lightning can also clinch a playoff berth on Saturday and the Carolina Hurricanes can clinch the Metropolitan Division title.
Saturday's 15-game schedule is full of playoff implications.
Ottawa, which holds the second wild-card spot in the East on a tiebreaker, is in action, as are Detroit and Columbus. All three teams have 88 points. Columbus could jump to third in the Metropolitan Division if it wins and the Islanders lose.
San Jose, Nashville and Los Angeles, battling for the second wild-card spot in the West, are in action. All three are tied with 79 points. The Sharks hold the spot and host the Predators.
Edmonton and Anaheim, tied at 87 points in the Pacific Division race, are in action. The Oilers moved into the lead on a tiebreaker after the Ducks lost on Friday. Vegas, three points back, visits Edmonton.
Central Division-leading Colorado is facing No. 2 Dallas with a chance to build on its six-point lead.
Who's in the 2026 NHL playoffs?
Eastern Conference: Carolina
Western Conference: Colorado, Dallas, Minnesota
Who can clinch an NHL playoff berth today?
The Buffalo Sabres will clinch a playoff berth if they beat the Capitals or if the Red Wings lose in regulation. They'd also clinch if they get one point and either of the following occurs: The Red Wings lose or the Senators lose in regulation.
The Tampa Bay Lightning will clinch a playoff berth if they beat the Bruins or the Red Wings lose in regulation. They'd also clinch if they get one point and either of the following occurs: The Red Wings lose or the Senators lose in regulation.
The Carolina Hurricanes will clinch the Metropolitan Division title if they defeat the Islanders in regulation and the Penguins fail to win in regulation. They'd also clinch if they win in overtime or a shootout and the Penguins lose. Another option: They gain one point and the Penguins lose in regulation.
NHL games today (Saturday, April 4)
Detroit at N.Y. Rangers, 12:30, ABC
Minnesota at Ottawa, 1
Colorado at Dallas, 3, ABC
Boston at Tampa Bay, 5
Florida at Pittsburgh, 5
Montreal at New Jersey, 7, NHL Network
Buffalo at Washington, 7
N.Y. Islanders at Carolina, 7
Winnipeg at Columbus, 7
Utah at Vancouver, 7
Toronto at Los Angeles, 7
Vegas at Edmonton, 10
Calgary at Anaheim, 10
Nashville at San Jose, 10
Chicago at Seattle, 10
NHL Eastern Conference standings 2025-26
After April 3 games. x-clinched playoff spot. z-eliminated
Metropolitan Division
x-Carolina Hurricanes (102)
Pittsburgh Penguins (92)
New York Islanders (89)
Atlantic Division
Tampa Bay Lightning (100)
Buffalo Sabres (100)
Montreal Canadiens (98)
Wild card
Boston Bruins (94)
Ottawa Senators (88)
Sitting out of playoff position: Detroit Red Wings (88), Columbus Blue Jackets (88), Philadelphia Flyers (88), Washington Capitals (85), New Jersey Devils (80), Florida Panthers (77), z-Toronto Maple Leafs (77), z-New York Rangers (71)
NHL Western Conference standings 2025-26
After April 3 games. x-clinched playoff spot. z-eliminated
Central Division
x-Colorado Avalanche (108)
x-Dallas Stars (102)
x-Minnesota Wild (96)
Pacific Division
Edmonton Oilers (87)
Anaheim Ducks (87)
Vegas Golden Knights (84)
Wild card
Utah Mammoth (84)
San Jose Sharks (79)
Sitting out of playoff position: Nashville Predators (79), Los Angeles Kings (79), St. Louis Blues (76), Winnipeg Jets (76), Seattle Kraken (75), Calgary Flames (70), z-Chicago Blackhawks (68), z-Vancouver Canucks (52)
NHL Eastern Conference playoff bracket
Here is how the Eastern Conference playoff bracket would look if the season ended on April 3:
Carolina (M1) vs. Ottawa (WC2)
Pittsburgh (M2) vs. N.Y. Islanders (M3)
Tampa Bay (A1) vs. Boston (WC1)
Buffalo (A2) vs. Montreal (A3)
The winner of the first series would play the winner of the second in the second round. The winner of the third series would play the winner of the fourth. Key: M - Metropolitan Division. A - Atlantic Division. WC - wild card
NHL Western Conference playoff bracket
Here is how the Western Conference playoff bracket would look if the season ended on April 3.
Colorado (C1) vs. San Jose (WC2)
Dallas (C2) vs. Minnesota (C3)
Edmonton (P1) vs. Utah (WC1)
Anaheim (P2) vs. Vegas (P3)
The winner of the first series would play the winner of the second in the second round. The winner of the third series would play the winner of the fourth. Key: C - Central Division P - Pacific Division. WC - wild card
NHL tiebreakers: What is the first tiebreaker in NHL standings?
If two teams are tied in points at the end of the regular season, here are the tiebreakers:
Regulation wins
Regulation and overtime wins (ROW)
Total wins
Most points earned in head-to-head competition: If teams had an uneven number of meetings, the first game played in the city that has the extra game is excluded.
Goal differential
Total goals
When does the NHL regular season end?
The NHL regular season is scheduled to end on Thursday, April 16, with six games.
When do the NHL playoffs start?
The NHL's Stanley Cup playoffs are scheduled to begin on April 18.
The Philadelphia Flyers picked up a massive 4-1 win over the New York Islanders on Friday. Flyers prospect Alex Bump undoubtedly was one of the major reasons behind it.
Bump put together a strong performance for the Flyers against the Islanders, as he scored the game-winning goal at the 15:01 mark of the first period and recorded an assist on Travis Sanheim's third-period goal. With this, Bump certainly helped the Flyers pick up two much-needed points against the Islanders.
With this clutch game for the Flyers, Bump now has four goals, four assists, and eight points in 13 games for Philadelphia so far this season. The 22-year-old forward is certainly showing that he can make an impact at the NHL level, and it should create more optimism about his future with the club because of it.
Bump is one of the Flyers' most exciting prospects, so it is certainly good to see him already producing solid offense at the NHL level. The Flyers will be hoping that he can continue to impress during this crucial final stretch of the season from here.
In 36 games this season down in the AHL with the Lehigh Valley Phantoms, Bump has 11 goals, 15 assists, and 26 points.
NEWARK, NEW JERSEY - NOVEMBER 06: Cole Caufield #13 of the Montreal Canadiens competes for the puck against Nico Hischier #13 of the New Jersey Devils during the first period at Prudential Center on November 06, 2025 in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Matchup: The New Jersey Devils (39-34-2) versus the Montreal Canadiens (44-21-10)
The Time: 7:00 PM EDT
The Broadcast: TV — MSG, NHLN; Radio — Devils Hockey Network
Halonen and McLaughlin Recalled
This morning, the New Jersey Devils announced that they recalled Brian Halonen and Marc McLaughlin from the Utica Comets. This will allow them to remove Evgenii Dadonov from the lineup. Not only was Dadonov on track to make another quarter-million dollars that would have been tacked onto next year’s cap hit as a bonus overage, Dadonov has been, by far, the least effective player on the ice in the few games he’s played for a team. Since March 1, Dadonov has had a shockingly low 26.35 expected goals percentage, which about half the average put up by the rest of the team.
#NEWS: We've recalled forwards Brian Halonen and Marc McLaughlin from Utica (AHL). They will join us for today’s morning skate.https://t.co/URc482J615
This season, Halonen has a goal in nine games for the Devils, as well as 19 goals and 13 assists in 48 games for the Comets. I would hope that he displaces Dadonov from the lineup, though I would have liked to see him get a chance on the third line. Now that Bjugstad has been promoted there, I doubt Halonen will get many minutes to show what he can do. McLaughlin, on the other hand, can play center and has six goals and seven assists in 21 games for Utica this season. I imagine he might come in for Maxim Tsyplakov if the Devils want to try both Comets out at the same time, or he might alternate with Halonen in Dadonov’s spot. Playing McLaughlin would allow Cotter to move back to wing.
End of the Line
The New Jersey Devils are winding their season down at this point. They are not mathematically eliminated, so it would still be good to go out and play their best hockey until the E is actually next to them in the standings. But this is it. For those playing for a contract extension, or to prove they should still be on the team next season, this is a time that will stick with people still watching the club play hockey. The Devils will have to downsize their defense, whether they bring in young guys in Anton Silayev or Seamus Casey or not. They will have to ask themselves if they want the same forward group in its entirety next season.
But for fans, the long wait is about to begin, too. Make sure you make the most of the remaining hockey to be played, even if the season has largely been hard to watch. Because, unless an absolute miracle happens over the next couple of weeks, the New Jersey Devils are going to have a five-month vacation. It won’t be long until I am waiting for the return of Devils hockey.
Can We Get Good Goaltending?
On the note of players who should be trying to justify their continual presence on the team, I would like to see better games from the goaltenders the rest of the way. Jacob Markstrom is back down to an .883 save percentage, and Jake Allen has slipped a bit to a .905 percentage. That’s a pretty good number for Allen, but it was better earlier in the season. Markstrom had almost climbed back to near league average, too, until a recent string of games dragged him down. In his last six games, the Devils are 3-3-0 with his .852 save percentage. He had a .916 save percentage in the eight games before that.
Personally, though, I think they should have called Nico Daws and Jakub Malek up at points this season to give them NHL games. If one of them can play in the big leagues next season, there is really no point for the team to bang its heads against the wall trying to make Markstrom’s extension work. There is only so long I can have patience for a guy who dips to having an .852 save percentage for extended stretches.
Your Thoughts
What do you think of tonight’s game? Will the Devils come out firing? Or will it be a slow game? Leave your thoughts in the comments below, and thanks for reading.
Sam Malinski is one of the most efficient point-producing defensemen in the NHL.
He’s walking into a bigger role with Cale Makar out of the lineup, which is why my Avalanche vs. Stars predictions see him finding the score sheet in this big divisional clash.
Let’s get into my NHL picks for Saturday, April 4.
Avalanche vs Stars prediction
Avalanche vs Stars best bet: Sam Malinski Over 0.5 points (+135)
Sam Malinski is scorching hot. He's piled up eight points over his last five games, headlined by a three-point performance in his last game — the first without superstar defenseman Cale Makar in the lineup.
He's more than capable of handling the added responsibility. Malinski ranks fifth among defensemen in points per 60 minutes of 5-on-5play, trailing names like Evan Bouchard, Lane Hutson, and Zach Werenski. The uptick in usage during that game state will serve him well.
Perhaps more importantly, Malinski finds himself quarterbacking the top power play in Makar’s role. Wheels up.
Avalanche vs Stars same-game parlay
Sticking with the theme of backing Colorado Avalanche blueliners sans Makar, Brent Burns is another prime target. He's generated multiple shots on target in nine of his last 10 games and attempted six shots in the first game without Makar.
On the Dallas Stars side, it’s all about Mikko Rantanen. He's assisted in nine of his past 10 following one day of rest and has picked up a helper in 75% of his appearances this season under those circumstances.
Oh, and the former Avalanche star has seven assists over his past four against Colorado. Talk about holding a grudge.
Brent Burns has cleared 1.5 shots in eight of his last nine games against Dallas. Find more NHL betting trends for Avalanche vs. Stars.
How to watch Avalanche vs Stars
Location
American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX
Date
Saturday, April 4, 2026
Puck drop
3:00 p.m. ET
TV
ABC
Avalanche vs Stars 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.
William Nylander has been a shooting machine on this California road trip, combining for 17 shot attempts over the first two games for the Toronto Maple Leafs.
My Maple Leafs vs. Kings predictions expect Nylander to continue piling up the shots against a Los Angeles Kings team that hasn’t tightened up since the coaching change.
Let’s take a closer look at my NHL picks for Saturday, April 4.
Maple Leafs vs Kings prediction
Maple Leafs vs Kings best bet: William Nylander Over 2.5 shots (-115)
William Nylander’s shot volume is on the rise. Excluding Top-10 shot suppression teams, Nylander has averaged 4.0 shots on 7.2 attempts over his past five games for the Toronto Maple Leafs.
A lot of his volume comes from the slot, where the Los Angeles Kings have struggled to defend of late. They rank 28th in slot shots allowed, spanning their last 10 games.
They have a reputation as a buttoned-up defensive team, but that hasn’t necessarily been the case. The Kings have also allowed shots and goals at a higher rate since moving on from head coach Jim Hiller.
Maple Leafs vs Kings same-game parlay
The training wheels are off for rookie Easton Cowan. He is riding shotgun with Nylander and John Tavares on the top line and skating on the No. 1 power play and making the most of it, having tallied five points over his last six.
The trio of Cowan, Tavares, and Nylander has outscored opponents 12-5 over 150 minutes of 5-on-5 play. Factor in that they all correlate on the power play, and it’s easy to get excited about backing all three.
Maple Leafs vs Kings SGP
William Nylander Over 2.5 shots
Easton Cowan Over 0.5 points
John Tavares Over 0.5 points
Maple Leafs vs Kings odds
Moneyline: Maple Leafs +145 | Kings -170
Puck Line: Maple Leafs +1.5 (-170) | Kings -1.5 (+145)
Over/Under: Over 5.5 (-135) | Under 5.5 (+115)
Maple Leafs vs Kings trend
William Nylander has recorded 3+ shots in five of his last seven against Los Angeles. Find more NHL betting trends for Maple Leafs vs. Kings.
How to watch Maple Leafs vs Kings
Location
Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, CA
Date
Saturday, April 4, 2026
Puck drop
7:00 p.m. ET
TV
Sportsnet
Maple Leafs vs Kings 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.
No matter what you think of the NHL’s playoff qualification process, there’s no question it has set the table for some exciting hockey, well before the Stanley Cup Playoffs even begin.
As play resumes Saturday, the Senators are part of a four-way logjam for the final Eastern Conference wild card spot. They’re tied at 88 points with the Detroit Red Wings, Columbus Blue Jackets, and Philadelphia Flyers.
NHL.com
Ottawa and Detroit each have seven games remaining, while Columbus and Philadelphia have six. The Senators also hold the first tiebreaker with 33 regulation regulation wins, which is well ahead of all three teams behind them.
That means plenty of scoreboard watching this weekend, starting early on Saturday.
Red Wings at Rangers 12:30 pm
At 12:30 p.m., Sens fans will be pulling for the New York Rangers to pull off an upset at home against the Red Wings. But as the worst team in the east, six points behind even the Leafs, motivation may not be particularly high in the Big Apple.
Wild at Senators 1 pm
The Senators are also in action Saturday afternoon, hosting the Minnesota Wild at 1:00 p.m. As the Sens cling to the final wild card spot by virtue of a tiebreaker (regulations wins), their horribly banged up blue line may feature three players on Saturday who've played a combined total of 7 NHL games this season: Cam Crotty, Lassi Thomson and Jorian Donovan.
Already without Jake Sanderson, Thomas Chabot, Nick Jensen, Dennis Gilbert, and Carter Yakemchuk, the Sens have suffered another injury to their blue line, losing Tyler Kleven, who took a puck off the side of his head on Thursday in their 4-1 win over Buffalo. That forced Jordan Spence to play over 30 minutes in the game and he can probably expect more of the same on Saturday.
Sanderson is close to returning, but it's believed that Jorian Donovan will be called up Saturday morning after playing one shift for Belleville on Friday night in Rochester and leaving that game. Sanderson wore a red jersey at practice on Friday.
Jets at Blue Jackets 7 pm
The Blue Jackets will host the Winnipeg Jets at 7:00 p.m. The Jets still have a slight chance to make the playoffs in the West despite being just one game over .500. Like the Senators were, Columbus will be in a foul mood after getting worked over in their most recent game. They fell 5-1 to Carolina on Thursday.
Islanders at Hurricanes 7 pm
The New York Islanders are also very much part of this discussion. They cling to third in the Metro but the Blue Jackets and Flyers would both love to jump out of this wild card nightmare and grab third place.
After Philly beat them 4-1 on Friday, the Islanders sit just one point ahead of the wild card pack but with only five games lefts, they've played two games more than the Sens and Wings. The Isles will have their hands full Saturday night, visiting the Carolina Hurricanes, who have already clinched a playoff spot but are still pushing to lock down top spot in the East.
The Flyers are idle on Saturday but will host Boston on Sunday.
The Wild and Hurricanes can both heavily influence the race this weekend. After facing the Sens, the Wild get Detroit on Sunday.
Meanwhile, Carolina has a nasty turnaround, playing the Islanders on Saturday night, then hustling up to Ottawa to face the Sens at 5 on Sunday. It will be interesting to see if Linus Ullmark is available in a back to back situation.
Buckle up. It's going to be a bumpy ride.
Steve Warne The Hockey News
This article was first published at The Hockey News Ottawa. Check out more great Sens features from The Hockey News at the links below:
