NHL Playoff Race 2025: Final Battles, Surprise Teams & Cup Contenders
As the 2025 NHL season nears its end, the race for the final playoff spots is heating up. Teams like the Islanders, Penguins, and Kraken are battling for a postseason berth. Who will clinch the last spots, and which teams are true Stanley Cup contenders? Find out in our playoff race breakdown!
NHL Playoff Race Heats Up – Who Will Clinch the Final Spots?
As the 2025 NHL season nears its end, the battle for the final playoff spots is reaching a thrilling climax. With only a few games remaining, teams on the bubble are making their last push for a postseason berth. Let’s analyze the tightest playoff battles and the surprise teams making headlines.
Eastern Conference Playoff Battle
The Metropolitan and Atlantic divisions remain fiercely competitive, with several teams still in contention for a wild-card spot.
- New York Islanders – The Islanders are in a desperate fight for a playoff spot, sitting just outside the wild-card position. Their upcoming matchups against the Lightning and Rangers will be crucial.
- Pittsburgh Penguins – Led by veteran star Sidney Crosby, the Penguins are battling to extend their playoff streak. Key matchups against fellow contenders could determine their fate.
- Detroit Red Wings – One of the season’s biggest surprises, Detroit has relied on strong goaltending and depth scoring to stay in the race. A strong finish could see them clinch a spot.
Western Conference Playoff Battle
The Western Conference wild-card race remains just as intense, with multiple teams vying for a postseason berth.
- Seattle Kraken – After a sluggish start, the Kraken have surged into contention with improved special teams and strong goaltending. Their final games will be a major test.
- Calgary Flames – Calgary’s offense has ignited at the perfect time, and they’re within striking distance of a playoff spot. Their resilience will be key in the final stretch.
- Nashville Predators – A dark horse in the race, the Predators have quietly strung together wins with disciplined defense and clutch performances.
Top Stanley Cup Contenders
While the playoff race is tight, a few teams have already cemented their status as Stanley Cup favorites.
- Colorado Avalanche – Led by Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar, the Avalanche remain a dominant force with elite talent and depth.
- Boston Bruins – The Bruins boast a balanced attack and stellar goaltending, making them a serious contender.
- Edmonton Oilers – With Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl leading the charge, Edmonton’s offensive firepower makes them a threat to any team.
Final Predictions
With every point crucial, expect high-stakes action as teams fight for the last playoff spots. If surging teams like Detroit and Seattle maintain their momentum, they could steal a spot from more established franchises. However, experienced teams like the Penguins and Islanders won’t go down without a fight.
Stay tuned for more updates as the NHL playoff picture comes into full focus—because in hockey, anything can happen!