The NHL playoffs are heating up as the Carolina Hurricanes have solidified their place in the second round, dispatching the New Jersey Devils in a thrilling series that concluded with a double overtime victory. Meanwhile, the Florida Panthers and Washington Capitals are on the brink of joining them; the Panthers lead their series 3-1 against the Tampa Bay Lightning, who are missing key players, while the Capitals aim to close out their series against the Montreal Canadiens with a 3-1 lead.

In the Eastern Conference, the Toronto Maple Leafs face a tough challenge against the Ottawa Senators, currently leading their series 3-2. The playoff action continues this week, with games scheduled for both the Capitals and Panthers. Over in the Western Conference, the Winnipeg Jets are locked in a tight series against the St. Louis Blues, tied at 2-2, while the Dallas Stars hold a 3-2 lead over the Colorado Avalanche. The highly competitive nature of these matchups highlights the intensity and unpredictability of playoff hockey as teams vie for a shot at the Stanley Cup.

The NHL playoffs are heating up with three crucial matchups slated for Wednesday night. The Capitals can advance against the Canadiens, who sit at a 3-1 disadvantage. Capitals' rookie goaltender Jakub Dobes will be in net due to Sam Montembeault's injury. Meanwhile, the Lightning face the Panthers in a pivotal Game 5, with Tampa Bay needing a win to keep their playoff hopes alive. Last time out, Florida's quick goals turned the game, leaving the Lightning reeling. In the Central Division, the Jets must rebound against the Blues, with Connor Hellebuyck's performance under scrutiny after two poor outings.

Moneyline bets show the Capitals favored, while the Lightning look to recover at home. The Jets' playoff survival depends on Hellebuyck regaining form. Bettors should consider the implications of injuries and current team dynamics when placing bets, especially given the playoff intensity. Low totals are expected in these games, reflecting the tight defenses as teams battle for advancement.

The Carolina Hurricanes are facing significant injury concerns heading into their next game. Goaltender Frederik Andersen was absent from the morning skate, with coach Rod Brind'Amour stating he is day-to-day. Spencer Martin took his place on the ice. Additionally, forward Jesperi Kotkaniemi is nursing a cut above his eye from a previous match. Meanwhile, the Dallas Stars report that Miro Heiskanen and Jason Robertson are both in stable condition regarding their injuries.

In other news, Marcus Johansson returned from a lower-body injury for the Minnesota Wild, while Filip Gustavsson missed the third period of his last game due to an illness. The New Jersey Devils have confirmed Luke Hughes and Brenden Dillon will miss the series. The St. Louis Blues' Tyler Tucker is also day-to-day after an injury, and Tampa Bay Lightning's Brandon Hagel will not play in their upcoming game. Meanwhile, the Winnipeg Jets are hopeful for Nikolaj Ehlers' return soon, although he is still considered week-to-week.

The first round of the 2025 Stanley Cup playoffs is heating up, with potential clinching games on the horizon. The Washington Capitals are on the brink of advancing past the Montreal Canadiens, holding a 3-1 series lead. Cole Caufield has emerged as a notable player, ranking second in playoff shots on goal. Meanwhile, the Florida Panthers lead the Tampa Bay Lightning 3-1 in their series, seeking to capitalize on past success when leading 3-1 in playoffs. In a close matchup, the St. Louis Blues are tied with the Winnipeg Jets at 2-2, with Connor Hellebuyck struggling, which may impact the outcome as the series progresses.