The race for the NHL playoffs is reaching a fever pitch as teams scramble for the final wild-card spots in both conferences. With only weeks left in the regular season, the stakes couldn’t be higher in this thrilling fight for a postseason berth.
On Thursday, March 20, 2025, several crucial matchups will help define playoff positions and continue to capture the attention of hockey fans worldwide. Among the most significant clashes is the face-off between the Vancouver Canucks and St. Louis Blues, where both teams are tied for the second wild-card spot in the Western Conference, each boasting 75 points but differing in games played. The Canucks hold their wild-card position by virtue of having one game in hand, having played 68 games to St. Louis’s 69.
This matchup is not just vital for their playoff hopes; it's also critical beyond the win-loss record. The Canucks have had a rocky season, struggling offensively, with their five-on-five shot generation rate ranking 31st in the NHL since January 1, 2025. Recently, however, they’ve shown signs of improvement, averaging 4.25 goals per game since the return of defenseman Quinn Hughes, leading to victories in three of their last four outings. For the Canucks, maintaining this form is fundamental as they prepare to face a challenging final stretch that includes multiple games against current playoff teams.
Conversely, the St. Louis Blues are riding high, having one of the league's best records at 11-3-3 since February 1, 2025. Following the arrival of coach Jim Montgomery, they've substantially improved their performance on both ends of the ice, controlling nearly 53 percent of expected goals at five-on-five. Key players like Robert Thomas and Jordan Kyrou have also stepped up, making the Blues a formidable opponent for the Canucks. With the postseason looming, the results of this game could significantly shift the dynamics of their playoff race.
Meanwhile, in the Eastern Conference, the New York Islanders are preparing for a pivotal game against the Montreal Canadiens, who currently hold the first wild-card spot three points ahead of New York. This is particularly crucial for the Islanders because a regulation win would bring them within one point of their rivals.
As the Islanders engage in a four-game homestand that includes matchups against other wild-card contenders, they're surging after two consecutive wins. Their recent form reflects growing confidence, and Ilya Sorokin has been a standout, tallying seven quality starts in his past nine appearances. However, with key injuries and the team’s power play languishing in the league’s basement, the Islanders must find a way to capitalize when opportunities present themselves.
For Montreal, a team that has caught fire with an impressive 8-1-2 record since the 4 Nations break, the top line of Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, and Juraj Slafkovský has been instrumental in their success. In their last 11 games, they’ve showcased an 11-4 goal differential at five-on-five, providing a potent offensive threat that New York will need to neutralize.
Time is of the essence. As the NHL season progresses with just 29 days left before the playoffs begin, the Washington Capitals are on the brink of clinching their playoff spot. They can secure a berth on March 20 if they manage to defeat the struggling Philadelphia Flyers. The Capitals, currently leading the Eastern Conference, are also eyeing a historic moment for their star player, Alex Ovechkin, who sits just eight goals shy of breaking Wayne Gretzky’s long-held record of 894 goals.
Thursday’s schedule is packed with playoff implications as 14 games unfold across the league. Each contest could alter the trajectory of teams desperately aiming for a chance at the Stanley Cup. Other notable games include the Toronto Maple Leafs facing the New York Rangers, where New York is pushing for every point it can get to contend with the Islanders and Blue Jackets for the final playoff spots. Likewise, the Columbus Blue Jackets, mirroring the Islanders’ record but grasping for momentum, will take on the Florida Panthers, hoping to close the gap between themselves and the Canadiens.
As playoff scenarios become more defined, the focus intensifies on each game. Teams will not only be fighting for points but also momentum heading into the playoffs. For the teams on the brink, like the Canucks, Blues, Islanders, and Canadiens, every game is a battle that could decide their fates in the quest for hockey’s ultimate prize.
In summary, with the NHL playoff picture becoming increasingly clearer, the remaining games will be critical. The Canucks and Blues face off in a showdown for the wild-card spot, while the Islanders must defeat the Canadiens to keep their playoff dreams alive. Excitement builds around the league as the final stretch approaches, marking what promises to be a thrilling finish to the season.
