Apr 1, 2025; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; Buffalo Sabres goalie James Reimer (47) makes a save on a shot from Ottawa Senators center Tim Stutzle (18) in the third period at the Canadian Tire Centre. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-Imagn Images

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NHL Playoff Clinching Scenarios: Who’s In & Who’s Still Fighting?

Stay updated on the latest NHL playoff clinching scenarios, including confirmed teams and those still battling for a spot in the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

With fewer than 10 games left in the regular season, top teams are locking in their playoff positions and preparing for a deep postseason run. Meanwhile, the battle for the final playoff spots and wild-card berths in both the Eastern and Western Conferences is reaching a fever pitch, with every game carrying massive implications. In total, 16 teams will make it: the top three from each division plus two wild-card teams from both conferences.

At this stage, almost every game has something crucial at stake, whether it’s clinching a playoff spot, securing a division title, or reaching a major individual milestone. With the regular season ending on April 17, we’re here to break down everything you need to know as the race to the playoffs heats up.

Scenarios: #Canes and #Leafs looking to clinch their playoff spots tonight. #RaiseUp #LeafsForever pic.twitter.com/G6IbrmHDMP
— NHL News (@PuckReportNHL) April 2, 2025

As the NHL regular season nears its conclusion, teams are vying for coveted playoff spots. On April 2, 2025, two teams in the Eastern Conference have the opportunity to clinch their postseason berths:

Eastern Conference Clinching Scenarios:

Carolina Hurricanes: The Hurricanes will secure a playoff spot if they earn at least one point in their game against the Washington Capitals.

Toronto Maple Leafs: The Maple Leafs will clinch a playoff berth if they gain at least one point in their matchup with the Florida Panthers.

With an amazing victory on Tuesday, the Montreal Canadiens shook up the playoff race by delaying several Atlantic Division teams from clinching a spot. Even though both the Florida Panthers and Tampa Bay Lightning have a magic number of just one, their chances of securing a playoff berth now depend on Montreal’s game on Thursday. Even if the Panthers (44-26-4) win tonight, they still won’t officially clinch.

Meanwhile, Alex Ovechkin inched closer to history on Tuesday, scoring career goal No. 891. That puts him just three goals away from tying Wayne Gretzky’s all-time NHL record and four away from breaking it. He’ll be especially eager to face the Carolina Hurricanes tonight, he’s played against them more than any other team, racking up 51 goals in 91 games.

Western Conference Clinching Scenarios

The race for the Stanley Cup Playoffs in the Western Conference is intensifying, with several teams on the verge of clinching postseason berths. Recent developments have shaped the playoff picture.

Vegas Golden Knights

The Vegas Golden Knights have officially clinched a playoff spot for the seventh time in their eight-year history. Their postseason berth was confirmed on April 1, 2025, thanks to a Calgary Flames loss against the Utah Hockey Club. The defending Stanley Cup champions are again in the mix, aiming for another deep playoff run.

Dallas Stars

The Dallas Stars are on the verge of clinching a spot. A recent four-game winning streak, fueled by standout performances from Wyatt Johnston, has put them in a strong position. They’ll soon secure their place in the playoffs if they maintain their momentum.

Winnipeg Jets

The Jets have had multiple chances to clinch their spot. On March 25, they needed either a point against the Washington Capitals or a St. Louis Blues loss to the Montreal Canadiens to lock in a postseason berth. Though they missed that opportunity, they remain in control of their fate with just a few games left.

Other Contenders

The race isn’t over yet. Teams like the Los Angeles Kings, Edmonton Oilers, and Colorado Avalanche are still in contention. Every game matters as they fight for the remaining spots in the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

Image Credit: Marc DesRosiers-Imagn Images

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Anamika Shrivastava

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I’ve always loved writing and storytelling, and hockey gives me a perfect stage for endless stories to tell. Whether it’s breaking down a game, analyzing a big trade, or capturing the emotions on the ice, I bring the NHL to life through words. So what’s the best part you ask? Watching the action unfold and turning it into something fans can connect with. To my readers: Hockey is more than just a game—it’s the highs, the heartbreaks, and the moments that make us jump off our seats. So, keep cheering, keep debating, and never stop loving the madness of the sport!