As April progresses, the NHL playoff picture is undergoing significant shifts. Teams that seemed destined for postseason success are now struggling to secure their spots.
The Washington Capitals, Philadelphia Flyers, and Colorado Avalanche have hit rough patches in their seasons. The Capitals have dropped their last six games, the Flyers their last seven, and the Avalanche three of their last four. This has allowed teams like Pittsburgh, Detroit, and the New York Islanders to climb in the Eastern Conference standings, while Dallas has solidified its lead in the Central Division.
