Almost Everyone Can Still Make The Playoffs. Who Claims A Spot?

Eastern Conference chaos—can the Buffalo Sabres or Ottawa Senators defy the odds and claw their way back into playoff contention? With the Pittsburgh Penguins barely holding onto the wild card and the New Jersey Devils fading fast despite Jack Hughes’ return, every point is fueling a high-stakes race. Seth Jones’ injury throws the Florida Panthers’ momentum into question, while the Toronto Maple Leafs and New York Rangers linger near the bubble despite rough seasons. Is surprise resurgence in Buffalo sustainable, or are goaltending woes destined to dismantle New Jersey’s playoff hopes?

Out West, the Anaheim Ducks’ early promise has soured, leaving the Pacific Division wide open for contenders like the Los Angeles Kings, Seattle Kraken, and San Jose Sharks. As the Vegas Golden Knights battle to recapture form and trade deadline speculation mounts, Seth Toupal and JD Young break down the key trends, looming roster moves, and which underdogs might steal a playoff berth. Which team will seize its moment in this unpredictable NHL landscape?

 

Everydayer Club

If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.

Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNHL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. So before tip-off, check the FanDuel app and see what’s dropping during NBA Happy Hour — every Friday from 6 to 7:30 PM Eastern. A little basketball, a little action, and a whole lot of Friday energy.  

Rocket Money
Take control of your finances and cancel your unwanted subscriptions with Rocket Money.
Go to https://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDONtoday.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.