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Jason Chen
Apr 14, 2026
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While the Stars-Wild matchup in the West has drawn tons of attention, the Eastern Conference has highlighted a few matchups of their own that are certainly worth paying attention to. 

First, with the Sabres winning the division title, the Habs and Lightning are now locked in for a first-round matchup. It's their first meeting in the playoffs since the 2021 Stanley Cup Final. If their April 9 barnburner was any indication, this series will feature plenty of highlight-reel goals and dust-ups. 

The Battle of Pennsylvania doesn't need any introduction, and it'll be a treat to see the Pens and Flyers face off in the playoffs for the first time since 2018. They've met each other four times in the cap era with the Pens holding a 3-1 edge in the overall series. 

Which playoff series are you most excited for?

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