Excitement is peaking around the NHL as the 2025 postseason unfolds. Nothing captures this intensity better than the annual scramble to fill out an accurate NHL playoff bracket. Whether you’re a seasoned hockey fan or choosing favorites for the first time, understanding this year’s bracket, the schedule, and each matchup is crucial for following the road to the Stanley Cup.

Alt: Teams battling in the 2025 NHL playoff bracket during a high-stakes postseason match.

2025 NHL Playoff Bracket Overview

The NHL playoff bracket for 2025 is packed with thrilling matchups and storylines. Sixteen teams from across the league have qualified, battling through best-of-seven series in four rounds. The bracket format divides teams by conference, creating fierce paths on both the Eastern and Western sides.

For an in-depth, always-updated schedule and a full look at the bracket, CBSSports.com offers a dedicated guide with scores, results, and highlights from each first-round matchup. This resource is perfect if you want to monitor series leads, overtime thrillers, and upcoming elimination games.

Key First-Round Matchups and Surprises

Early action in the NHL playoff bracket has already delivered classic moments. The Toronto Maple Leafs seized an initial advantage against the Ottawa Senators, but Ottawa’s Game 4 and 5 victories shifted momentum, forcing a crucial Game 6. The Vegas Golden Knights and Minnesota Wild have gone toe-to-toe, their series delivering edge-of-your-seat overtime finishes.

Meanwhile, the Florida Panthers and Washington Capitals are each aiming for quick series closes, but underdogs like the Tampa Bay Lightning and Montreal Canadiens are putting up stiff resistance. To see all first-round scores and pivotal recap links, review the full breakdown at CBSSports.com.

Schedule and Start Times: What’s Next?

Timely updates on start times are essential as the bracket unfolds. For example, Game 6 between the Maple Leafs and Senators is set for 7 p.m. ET on Thursday, May 1, in Ottawa. The Dallas Stars will face the Colorado Avalanche in Denver at 9:30 p.m. ET the same night. You can view the official schedule for key upcoming games on NHL.com, helping you plan your viewing and bracket updates.

Playoff Bracket Drama: Analysis and Storylines

Behind every matchup are fascinating narratives. This year, goaltending has already shaped results, with big names like Connor Hellebuyck of the Winnipeg Jets under heavy scrutiny after multiple early exits. Meanwhile, the Vegas Golden Knights continue to rely on depth, while the Colorado Avalanche benefit from the return of star players like Gabriel Landeskog.

If you’re seeking expert reactions and analytical takeaways from the most recent games, ESPN’s Stanley Cup takeaways highlights issues such as Toronto’s struggles to close series, the physicality of the Florida-Tampa rivalry, and the key goaltending matchups in cross-conference showdowns.

How to Use the NHL Playoff Bracket

Filling out your NHL playoff bracket isn’t just a fandom ritual. It’s a chance to test your hockey knowledge and track the ups and downs of the postseason. As teams advance or fall, update your choices and see how your predictions stack up against reality. Many fans also compete in bracket challenges, adding a layer of engagement and friendly competition.

Don’t forget to bookmark trusted sources for the latest brackets, injury reports, and televised matchups. Official NHL and sports media outlets ensure accuracy and timely updates for every round.

Conclusion: Stay Ahead as the Quest for the Cup Continues

With the 2025 NHL playoff bracket evolving daily, fans are treated to incredible drama and unforgettable moments. Stay updated on scores, schedules, and expert analysis with resources like CBSSports.com, NHL.com, and ESPN’s takeaways. Don’t miss the next twist along the road to crowning the next Stanley Cup champion!