Updated 2026 NHL Playoff Bracket, Schedule and Top Highlights from April 23

The Carolina Hurricanes and Colorado Avalanche are both one win away from advancing to the second round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs. The Hurricanes secured their third consecutive win over the Ottawa Senators in the Eastern Conference, moving to within one victory of elimination. Carolina's result set up two potential Eastern Conference series-clinching scenarios for Saturday, April 26, 2026.