Austin Konenski
The NHL playoff games today continue the race for the Stanley Cup, with key matchups shaping the first round of the postseason. Here’s the full Stanley Cup Playoffs schedule, including start times, matchups, and what to watch.
Updated: May 1, 2026 – 1:00 PM ET
NHL Playoff Games Today
- Total games: 3
- Round: First Round
- Featured matchup: Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Montreal Canadiens
- Elimination games: N/A
- TV coverage: ESPN, ESPN2
Today’s NHL Playoff Schedule
Here is the NHL playoff schedule today (Friday, May 1).
Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Montreal Canadiens -7:00 PM ET (ESPN2)
Series: Montreal leads 3-2
Last game: Montreal won 3-2
Storyline: Montreal looks to pull off a first-round upset while Tampa hopes to stave off elimination in Game 6.
Buffalo Sabres vs. Boston Bruins – 7:30 PM ET (ESPN)
Series: Buffalo leads 3-2
Last game: Boston won 2-1 (OT)
Storyline: Buffalo hopes for its first playoff series win since 2007 as Boston pushes to force Game 7.
Vegas Golden Knights vs. Utah Mammoth – 10:00 PM ET (ESPN)
Series: Vegas leads 3-2
Last game: Vegas won 5-4 (2OT)
Storyline: Vegas looks to clinch its first-round playoff series while Utah hopes to force an electrifying Game 7.
Top NHL Playoff Matchups to Watch in Second Round
These NHL playoff games carry the biggest impact based on momentum, star power, and playoff implications.
- [Montreal Canadiens vs Tampa Bay Lightning] – Montreal-Tampa is the top NHL playoff matchup remaining, as both teams are among the best in the league. This rivalry is destined to produce an all-time classic.
- [Boston Bruins vs Buffalo Sabres] – Buffalo is back in the playoffs for the first time since 2011, while Boston looks to make some noise after missing last year.
Players to Watch in Second Round
David Pastrnak – Boston Bruins
David Pastrnak enters Game 6 with Boston needing to steal a game in Buffalo. Pastrnak will lead the Bruins with his aggression and elite offense.
Jack Eichel – Vegas Golden Knights
Jack Eichel enters Game 6 looking to push Vegas into the second round. Eichel will lead the Golden Knights with his elite offensive game.
Cole Caufield – Montreal Canadiens
Cole Caufield enters Game 6 needing one more stellar offensive performance. Caufield will help lead the Candiens with his elite offense after a strong first round.
What’s at Stake Tomorrow
- Carolina and Philadelphia begin the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs in an electric Metro Division matchup
This page is updated daily with the latest NHL playoff games today, start times, and matchups.
Read More: Stanley Cup Playoffs Bracket: First Round Matchups, NHL Schedule & Standings
