2026 Stanley Cup Playoff Seedings Set

Colorado Avalanche finished the regular season with the President’s Trophy, ranking first in goals scored and goals allowed per game. The Avalanche will face the Western Conference’s second wild-card team in the first round of the playoffs.

Carolina Hurricanes were the top Eastern Conference team and ranked second overall, scoring the second-most goals per game. Carolina’s power play ranked fourth in the league. The Hurricanes will face the Eastern Conference’s second wild-card team in round one.

Dallas Stars’ defense and goaltending ranked second in goals allowed per game. The Stars’ power play percentage ranked second behind the Edmonton Oilers. Buffalo Sabres finished the season atop the Atlantic Division, ranking fifth in goals scored per game.

Tampa Bay Lightning finished the regular season ranked fourth in goals scored and third in goals allowed per game. Montreal Canadiens ranked sixth in goals scored per game. Minnesota Wild ranked fourth in defensive efficiency.

Pittsburgh Penguins were top 10 in goals scored per game and boasted top 10 power play and penalty kill percentages. The Ottawa Senators made the playoffs after a strong second half of the season. The Los Angeles Kings' defense and goaltending led the team to a playoff berth, despite a low-ranking offense. The playoffs begin April 18.