NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs: Conference primer as the race for the cup gets real

The NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs have reached the conference finals stage with four teams remaining. In the Eastern Conference Finals, the Carolina Hurricanes lead the Montreal Canadiens 2-1 heading into Game Four, with action taking place at the Bell Centre in Montreal on May 25, 2026. In the Western Conference Finals, the Vegas Golden Knights hold a commanding 3-0 series lead over the Colorado Avalanche, who face elimination.