Context:

The 2025 NHL Stanley Cup playoffs present a highly competitive landscape with 16 teams vying for the prestigious title. Reigning champions, the Florida Panthers, aim to repeat their success, while previous winners, the Avalanche and Golden Knights, also pose strong challenges. Key storylines include Connor McDavid's quest for his first championship with the Oilers and Alex Ovechkin's attempt to crown a successful season with the Capitals. The playoff format includes four rounds of best-of-seven series, starting with 16 teams—eight from each conference—competing for a spot in the finals. The tournament is broadcast across various networks in the U.S. and Canada, with multiple streaming options available for fans worldwide.

Dive Deeper:

• The Stanley Cup playoffs in 2025 feature a wide-open race with 16 teams, including prominent contenders like the defending champions Panthers, 2022 winners Avalanche, and 2023 champions Golden Knights aiming for the title.

• Connor McDavid, a key player for the Oilers, is striving to secure his first Stanley Cup, while veteran Alex Ovechkin leads the Capitals, aiming to underline a strong season with a championship victory.

• The playoff structure involves four rounds of best-of-seven series, with 16 teams—eight from each conference—qualifying based on their standings, including division winners and wild-card entries.

• Broadcast coverage in the United States is shared between the ESPN and Turner networks, while Canadian viewers can watch through Sportsnet, CBC, and TVA Sports, with streaming available on platforms like ESPN+, Fubo, and Sling.

• The playoffs commenced on April 19, with series formats allowing home advantage to higher-seeded teams in a 2–2–1–1–1 format, ensuring competitive balance and excitement throughout the tournament.

• The postseason involves intense matchups, including the Panthers vs. Maple Leafs and Capitals vs. Hurricanes, with each series showcasing high-stakes games and potential overtimes adding to the drama.

• Fans can follow the action via multiple streaming services and listen to live play-by-play commentary on SiriusXM, providing comprehensive access to every game on the road to the Stanley Cup Final.