Join hosts Kirk Buchner and Chris Mouradian for a no-holds-barred preview of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs. We break down all 8 first-round matchups, debate controversial seeding, and make our bold series predictions.
? EASTERN CONFERENCE
• Carolina Hurricanes vs. Ottawa Senators – Fresh matchup, physical battle
• Buffalo Sabres vs. Boston Bruins – Youth vs. experience, goaltending duel
• Montreal Canadiens vs. Tampa Bay Lightning – Covid-era rematch
• Pittsburgh Penguins vs. Philadelphia Flyers – Battle of Pennsylvania, legacy on the line
? WESTERN CONFERENCE
• Colorado Avalanche vs. Los Angeles Kings – Presidents' Trophy favorites
• Vegas Golden Knights vs. Utah Hockey Club – Playoff vets vs. hungry newcomers
• Edmonton Oilers vs. Anaheim Ducks – McDavid's Cup quest continues
• Dallas Stars vs. Minnesota Wild – The marquee matchup nobody wanted in Round 1
? We also tackle:
✅ Why playoff hockey is statistically different from regular season
✅ The controversial NHL playoff format (and why fans are furious)
✅ Connor McDavid: Greatest player never to win the Cup?
✅ Goaltending questions that could decide every series
? Drop your predictions in the comments! Who wins the Cup? Which first-round upset are you calling?
? Subscribe for weekly hockey coverage, playoff updates, and post-series breakdowns.
? Visit notinhalloffame.com for more podcasts, articles, and exclusive content. #NHL #StanleyCup #Playoffs2026
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