The Stanley Cup Playoffs heat up Monday with four exciting matchups that’ll have hockey fans glued to their screens.
The Winnipeg Jets, who dominated the regular season, are looking to take a commanding 2-0 lead over the St. Louis Blues. They’re riding high after Saturday’s thrilling 5-3 comeback win, where Kyle Connor played hero with the game-winner in the final two minutes.
Out west, Nathan MacKinnon’s putting on a show for Colorado. The superstar forward racked up two goals and an assist as the Avalanche crushed Dallas 5-1 in their opener. They’re hungry for revenge after the Stars knocked them out last year.
Here’s where it gets really interesting: Alex Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals are starting their playoff journey against Montreal. Ovi’s been absolutely incredible this year – at 39 years old, he scored 44 goals and passed Wayne Gretzky to become the NHL’s all-time leading scorer. Pretty amazing stuff.
The Caps haven’t won a playoff series since hoisting the Stanley Cup in 2018. But having the greatest goal-scorer ever might help change that.
Edmonton’s getting a huge boost as they head to Los Angeles. Leon Draisaitl’s back after missing a few weeks, and he’s been absolutely lethal this season. The German sniper grabbed his fourth Maurice Richard Trophy with 52 goals.
This’ll be the fourth straight year the Oilers and Kings have met in the playoffs. Edmonton’s won all three previous matchups.
For those interested in betting, here are some players who might light the lamp tonight:
Draisaitl’s looking like a solid bet at +155. He’s owned the Kings in the playoffs, scoring 17 goals in their last three series meetings.
Montreal’s Nick Suzuki (+230) is red-hot with eight goals in his last 10 games. He’s also got a knack for scoring against Washington.
Kevin Fiala (+210) has been on fire for the Kings lately with seven goals in eight games.
Mason Marchment (+400) could be worth a look for Dallas, especially with Jason Robertson out injured.
The playoffs are finally here, and if these matchups are any indication, we’re in for some incredible hockey.
