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The NHL has released the schedule for the first round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs, including matchups, game dates, and start times. Teams are gearing up for intense best-of-seven series in both conferences.
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The NHL has officially released the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs schedule for the first round, detailing all matchups, game dates, and start times as teams begin their push toward the championship.
The opening round features best-of-seven series across both conferences, with division winners and wild-card teams meeting in high-stakes matchups.
The Eastern Conference first round features eight teams in best-of-seven series, with higher seeds holding home-ice advantage in Games 1, 2, 5, and 7.
Below are the complete Eastern Conference matchups for the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs, including schedules and broadcast details in the first round.
Series format: Best-of-seven | First round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs
Boston’s experience meets Buffalo’s rising core in a physical Atlantic Division series that tests both depth and composure.
Tampa Bay’s playoff-tested roster faces a Montreal team looking to extend its postseason momentum in a rematch-style Atlantic showdown.
Carolina’s structured, defensive style meets Ottawa’s young, fast-rising core in a series built on pace and discipline.
A renewed Pennsylvania rivalry adds intensity to a matchup defined by history, physicality, and playoff experience.
Winners advance to the Eastern Conference Semifinals of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs.
The Western Conference first round features eight teams in best-of-seven series, with higher seeds holding home-ice advantage in Games 1, 2, 5, and 7.
Below are the complete Western Conference matchups for the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs.
A speed-driven Avalanche attack meets a defensively structured Kings roster in a classic contrast of styles.
Dallas’ balanced scoring and experience contrast with Minnesota’s disciplined defensive structure and goaltending strength.
Vegas’ playoff-tested core faces a Utah squad making its early postseason appearance under pressure.
Edmonton’s high-powered offense tests Anaheim’s young roster and defensive structure.
The Stanley Cup Playoffs feature a 16-team bracket with four best-of-seven rounds culminating in the Stanley Cup Finals.
Winners advance to the Conference Semifinals as the chase for the Stanley Cup continues.
Read More: NHL Games Today – Full Schedule, Start Times, and Matchups
Related Headlines
The matchups for the first round include division winners and wild-card teams competing in best-of-seven series.
The schedule details the specific game dates and start times for the first round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs.
The first round features a best-of-seven series format, meaning a team must win four games to advance.
The full schedule for the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs is available on the NHL's official website.

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