NHL playoffs 2026: what to watch as Canadian teams aim to end long Stanley Cup drought

The NHL playoffs begin this weekend, with Canadian teams once again chasing a long-awaited Stanley Cup victory.

The opening game sees the Ottawa Senators face the Carolina Hurricanes, with Ottawa entering as underdogs despite strong recent form.

The Hurricanes finished near the top of the league but the Senators have surged since March, setting up a potentially competitive series.

The Montreal Canadiens will meet the Tampa Bay Lightning in another closely watched matchup.

Both teams finished the regular season with 106 points though Tampa Bay holds the edge due to stronger results in regulation and greater playoff experience.

The Lightning remain a formidable side with star players and a recent history of deep playoff runs.

However, Montreal’s young core has emerged as a major storyline.

Captain Nick Suzuki reached 100 points this season, while Cole Caufield scored 51 goals, highlighting the team’s growing attacking strength.

In the Western Conference, the Edmonton Oilers are aiming for a third consecutive trip to the Stanley Cup final. With star forward Leon Draisaitl expected to return from injury, Edmonton will look to capitalise that.