Here’s the latest NHL playoff update (May 4, 2026) — we’ve just wrapped up Round 1 and Round 2 is starting:
Big recent results (Round 1 just finished)
- The Montreal Canadiens upset the Tampa Bay Lightning 2–1 in Game 7 to win their series.
The Philadelphia Flyers eliminated the Pittsburgh Penguins in Game 6 (OT).
The Buffalo Sabres beat the Boston Bruins in 6 games.
The Colorado Avalanche swept the Los Angeles Kings 4–0.
The Minnesota Wild knocked out the Dallas Stars in 6 games.
The Vegas Golden Knights beat the Utah Mammoth in 6 games.
Round 2 matchups (just starting)
Eastern Conference
- Carolina Hurricanes vs Philadelphia Flyers
- Hurricanes already won Game 1 (3–0)
Buffalo Sabres vs Montreal Canadiens
- Series begins May 6
Western Conference
- Colorado Avalanche vs Minnesota Wild
- Avalanche dominated Game 1 9–6
- Vegas Golden Knights vs Anaheim Ducks
- Game 1 happening May 4
Quick picture of the playoffs
- Round 1 is done
- Round 2 (Conference Semifinals) is underway
- No defending champs — the Florida Panthers missed playoffs
Underdog story: Buffalo Sabres back in playoffs after a long drought