The Hockey Edit

A full breakdown of the 2025 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs Round 2 matchups, including key storylines, player watchlists, and schedule info for each series in the Eastern and Western Conference.

Nearly two weeks into the 2025 Stanley Cup playoffs, and we are finally moving onto round two. While no teams swept in round one, some games were definitely more intense than others. But now all teams must put the last round behind them and look ahead to being one step closer to holding Lord Stanley.

Eastern Conference Matchups

Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Florida Panthers

This match-up may feel like deja-vu for Leafs and Panthers fan. Back in 2023, the Florida Panthers faced the Toronto Maple Leafs, winning the second round series in 5 games. 

The Panthers look to capitalize on their momentum coming off a 4-1 series win over the Tampa Bay Lightning. The Panthers leaned on physicality and playoff-tested core, and they look poised to continue. 

Meanwhile the Maple Leafs showed great resilience after overcoming the Ottawa Senators in six games. The Leafs’ Core 4 (Matthews, Nylander, Marner, and Knies) played exceptional for them and will need to continue to put up points in this next series.

Watch Game 1: Monday, May 5, 8 p.m. ET in Toronto (ESPN, Sportsnet, CBC, TVA Sports). 

Washington Capitals vs. Carolina Hurricanes

This is the second-ever playoff meeting of the Capitals and Hurricanes – last time ending with a Carolina win in the 2019 first-round series in seven games. When we saw the Capitals and Hurricanes play during the regular season, it was nothing short of entertaining.

The Hurricanes are coming in with momentum, despite losing veteran goalie Frederik Andersen to injury. Pyotr Kochetkov will be their net minder, backed by Carolina’s aggressive 5-on-5 play and blue-line depth.

Washington, on the other hand, relied on disciplined structure and veteran leadership of Alex Ovechkin. This series could hinge on goaltending, as Logan Thompson looks to outduel a relatively unproven Carolina crease.

Watch Game 1: Tuesday, May 6, 7 p.m. ET in Washington (ESPN). 

Western Conference Matchups

Vegas Golden Knights vs. Edmonton Oilers

These two teams will see a rematch of the 2023 second-round series, previously won by Vegas in six games.

 The Edmonton Oilers are coming off an impressive 0-2 comeback against the LA Kings, winning 4 games straight. The offensive power of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl is equally challenging to their experience in the playoffs. 

Vegas, however, won’t back down. Their forward depth, led by Jack Eichel and Tomas Hertl, combined with a stingy blueline, will make this a heavyweight clash in the truest sense.

Dallas Stars vs. Winnipeg Jets

The Dallas Stars are coming off an intense game 7 series against the Colorado Avalanche 

The good news for Dallas? Both Jason Robertson and Miro Heiskanen are expected to return for Round 2. Their presence could tilt the balance in what’s shaping up to be a highly competitive matchup regardless of the opponent.

Meanwhile Winnipeg is coming off a hard fought battle against the St. Luis Blues, winning the series in a game 7 double overtime. The series win should hopefully give the President Trophy winning team some confidence going into this next matchup. 

In Conclusion

If Round 1 offered a glimpse into the chaos and intensity of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Round 2 is set to deliver even more drama, highlight-reel goals, and controversial calls. The road to the Cup gets narrower—and nastier—from here.