NHL Playoffs Set: Sixteen Teams Vie for Stanley Cup - Does Alabama Care?

**Why it matters locally:** While Alabama doesn't have an NHL team, the Stanley Cup playoffs still generate some interest among the state's hockey fans. Many Alabamians follow the sport and may have allegiance to teams competing in the playoffs, especially those with players from the Southeast or teams they've followed for years. Sports bars across the state will likely show the games, providing a gathering point for fans who want to watch together. --- The 2026 NHL playoffs are poised to begin with sixteen teams contending for the Stanley Cup. Each team has secured its place through regular season performance and now faces the challenge of navigating a best-of-seven series format throughout the tournament. The conference standings have determined the playoff matchups, with divisional winners securing top seeds and wild card teams rounding out the bracket. As the playoffs unfold, each team will rely on key players to lead their respective offenses and defenses. The journey to the Stanley Cup will test the resilience and skill of each team, with only one ultimately claiming the championship.