Here’s how the Canadiens can make the playoffs

Although the Canadiens have their destiny in their hands, with only two games left to play, nothing is yet decided for the Montreal team.

Here are the possible scenarios:

1- If the Canadiens get two points, the team makes the playoffs regardless of the Blue Jackets’ results.

2- If the Canadiens get only one point, the Blue Jackets must win their last two games in order to get the tiebreaker (currently the Habs have 29 regular time wins against 28 for the Jackets).

3- If the Canadiens get no points, the Blue Jackets must win their two games and surpass the Habs in terms of points.

What is clear is that the Columbus team has no room for error and must remain perfect if they hope to catch up to the Tricolore.

However, if the identity of the last drafted team is not yet known, the portrait of the matchups in the Eastern Conference is almost set.

The Capitals are assured of finishing first and will host either the Canadiens or the Blue Jackets.

The Maple Leafs, who got their 50th win tonight, only need one point (or for the Lightning to win their last two games) to ensure they finish first in the Atlantic division.

We could see a first playoff matchup between the two Ontario rivals in over 20 years, as their last meeting dates back to the spring of 2004.

Although the Leafs are favorites on paper, let’s remember that the Sens won all three matchups between the two teams this season.

The other matchup in the Atlantic division will feature an interesting duel between the Florida rivals, pitting the Lightning against the Panthers.

This will be the fourth matchup between the two Florida teams in the last five years.

The Bolts won the first two series, while the Panthers won the one last year on their way to their first Stanley Cup win.

Finally, the last series in the Eastern Conference will feature the Hurricanes hosting the Devils.

The two teams met in the 2023 playoffs, with the Canes winning in five games.

Overtime

– Kudos to the Jets!

– Wow!

– A first goal in the NHL.