Stanley Cup Playoffs: April 14 Clinching Scenarios Unveiled
On April 14, the Stanley Cup Playoffs picture in the Eastern Conference could change with one result. A single game will determine Wild Card positioning and first-round matchups.
Pivotal matchup: Boston at New Jersey
The Boston Bruins visit the New Jersey Devils at 7 p.m. ET. The game will air on NESN, MSG, SNP and TVAS.
A Bruins win, by any result, would lock them into Wild Card 1. That outcome would set their opponent for the opening round.
Confirmed opponents if Boston prevails
With Boston clinching Wild Card 1, the Atlantic Division champion Buffalo Sabres would draw the Bruins. The Sabres have already secured the Atlantic Division title.
That scenario also finalizes the second wild-card slot. The Ottawa Senators would become Wild Card 2.
Senators and Hurricanes matchup
Ottawa, as Wild Card 2, would face the Carolina Hurricanes. Carolina holds the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference.
These clinching scenarios will be decisive for playoff seeding and travel. Teams will prepare accordingly for the postseason pairings.
- Date: April 14
- Key game: Boston Bruins vs. New Jersey Devils
- Time: 7 p.m. ET
- Broadcast: NESN, MSG, SNP, TVAS
- Potential outcomes: Bruins earn Wild Card 1 with a win
- If Bruins win: Buffalo Sabres vs. Bruins; Ottawa Senators vs. Carolina Hurricanes
