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.