NHL playoff implications highlight 14 key matchups today

The NHL has a busy Saturday with 14 games that hold playoff implications for many teams. The action starts at 1 p.m. ET and continues until late in the evening. The Vancouver Canucks face the New York Rangers to kick off the day. The Canucks are looking to reclaim a wild-card spot after losing a recent game. Meanwhile, the Rangers want to avoid missing the playoffs after winning the Presidents' Trophy last season. Later, the Philadelphia Flyers visit the Dallas Stars. The Flyers have no playoff hopes but aim to improve their position in the draft lottery. The Stars, currently pursuing the Central Division title, need a win to close the gap with the division leader. Meanwhile, the Buffalo Sabres take on the Minnesota Wild. The Sabres are out of playoff contention again, while the Wild hope to maintain their wild-card position despite being four points behind the division leaders. Other significant matchups include the Chicago Blackhawks against the St. Louis Blues. The Blackhawks are already eliminated from playoff contention and are focused on their draft position. The Calgary Flames will try to sweep the New York teams when they play the Islanders. Both teams are fighting for wild-card spots but are separated by only a couple of points. In another key game, the Florida Panthers face off against the Washington Capitals. The Panthers, who have had recent playoff success, lead their division and are looking to secure their spot. The Capitals are also confirmed for the playoffs and are a strong team this season. As the day continues, fans will watch teams like the Tampa Bay Lightning looking to extend their playoff streak against the new Utah Hockey Club, and the Colorado Avalanche who are expected to make the playoffs despite a challenging start to the season. The day wraps up with two late games, including the Boston Bruins fighting for their slim playoff hopes against the San Jose Sharks, who have already been eliminated. With just a few weeks left in the regular season, these games will be crucial for playoff positioning and draft lottery stakes.