2026 NHL Playoff Predictions: Why Dallas vs. Minnesota is a COIN FLIP | Stanley Cup Playoffs Preview

The Stanley Cup Playoffs are finally here! In this Thursday edition of Locked on NHL, Nick Zararis (Locked On Oilers) and Hunter Hodies (Locked On Penguins) deliver a deep-dive, stats-heavy preview of the first-round matchups. From the health of Miro Heiskanen to the "God Mode" potential of Jake Oettinger, we break down why the Dallas Stars vs. Minnesota Wild series is destined for seven games. We also pivot to the Eastern Conference to give our definitive series picks for the Carolina Hurricanes vs. Ottawa Senators, the high-flying Buffalo Sabres vs. Boston Bruins, and the "Cinema" matchup between Tampa Bay and Montreal. 

Plus, we analyze the Pacific Division seeding chaos: Will Edmonton face Anaheim or the Kings?

05:31 Importance of five-on-five play 

09:15 Minnesota team player analysis 

12:18 Quick take on Carolina vs Ottawa 

14:16 Playoff struggles without a superstar 

17:18 Buffalo vs. Boston prediction 

22:43 Stuart Skinner's playoff impact 

23:53 Penguins vs. Flyers series preview 

28:56 Predicting Edmonton vs. Anaheim series outcome 

29:47 Discussing Edmonton vs. Anaheim playoffs 

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