2025 Stanley Cup Playoff Bracket and Matchups Set

The 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs begin April 19 with 16 teams, including six from Canada, competing in a best-of-seven series format. The Winnipeg Jets and Washington Capitals secured top seeds in their conferences after strong regular seasons, with the Jets facing the St. Louis Blues and the Capitals led by Alex Ovechkin and breakout star Aliksei Protas. The opening round features marquee matchups such as the Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Ottawa Senators and the defending champion Florida Panthers against the Tampa Bay Lightning. Other notable pairings include the Dallas Stars vs. Colorado Avalanche, Vegas Golden Knights vs. Minnesota Wild, and Edmonton Oilers vs. Los Angeles Kings. The Jets are highlighted for their defensive strength and goaltending, while the Capitals are considered a well-rounded contender. The playoffs will culminate in a Stanley Cup Final between the Eastern and Western Conference champions.