The Hockey Edit

The 2025 NHL Playoffs are already delivering major surprises, key injuries, and thrilling OT finishes. From Minnesota’s underdog run to Edmonton’s struggles, here’s a breakdown of the biggest storylines so far.

Stanley Cup Playoffs Deliver Early Drama

We’re currently halfway through round 1 of the playoffs, and it’s clear to me why everyone says that playoff hockey is the best hockey. With every team fighting for their right to hold Lord Stanley over their heads, the games have been full of upsets, injuries, intense overtimes, and of course, incredible goals. 

Biggest Surprises of the 2025 NHL Playoffs

The biggest surprise so far? The Minnesota Wild leading their series against the Vegas Golden Nights. The Wild snuck into the postseason as the first Wild Card in the West, the Wild have come out swinging. Facing off against a Vegas squad led by Jack Eichel, few expected Minnesota to hold a series lead — but they’ve looked every bit like contenders through the first two games.

Another shock? The LA Kings ruling their series with a 2-0 lead. Putting up 6 goals in each game, the Oilers defense haven’t had an answer to the offensive power of Adrian Kempe, Quinton Byfield, and Andrei Kuzmenko who have been finding the back of the net for the Kings. Check out this article from ESPN for more on the latest game.

Key Injuries & Absences

Missing a cornerstone player during playoffs can be detrimental to a team: 

• Matthew Tkachuk is back on the ice and playing exactly how you’d expect him too for the Fla Panthers.
• The Edmonton Oilers are still missing Mattias Ekholm.
• The Dallas Stars remain without Miro Heiskanen and Jason Robertson, both ruled out for Game 4 vs. Colorado. 
• New Jersey Devils are still missing Jonas Siegenthaler, Jack Hughes, and Brendan Dillon — with no confirmed return timeline. 

For an update on injuries, look here -> https://www.espn.com/nhl/injuries

What’s at Stake Going Forward

Tonight there are three playoff games to watch: 

• Capitals vs Canadiens
• Hurricanes vs Devils 
• Kings vs Oilers

Saturday Night Spotlight:

• Maple Leafs vs. Senators — a potential series clincher for Toronto, who could sweep their provincial rivals with a win.

Final Thoughts

We’re still early in the 2025 NHL Playoffs, but the intensity has already hit mid-season form. From upsets to overtime, there’s no shortage of storylines to follow.

Who’s your early pick to come out of the first round?