NHL Playoff 2025 Races Heat Up as Top Seeds Secure Spots

As the NHL playoffs approach, the Eastern Conference playoff picture is shaping up with the top three teams in the Atlantic Division—Maple Leafs, Lightning, and Panthers—locked in but still vying for positioning. The Lightning could claim the top seed if they win their final games, while the Panthers aim for a potential second spot. Meanwhile, the race for the second Wild Card spot has become a surprise contest between the Montreal Canadiens and Columbus Blue Jackets, with Montreal currently holding an advantage due to their regulation wins. The Senators' recent success can be attributed to the emergence of their shutdown line, featuring Ridly Greig, Shane Pinto, and Michael Amadio, who have excelled in key defensive situations and offensive contributions. Additionally, the Philadelphia Flyers are experimenting with their defensive pairings in the season's final weeks, seeking to unlock new facets of their players' games. Overall, teams across the conference are focusing on strategic adjustments as the playoffs loom.