Saturday NHL Game Previews: Playoff Scenarios and Matchup Insights

New York Rangers at New Jersey Devils
12:30 p.m. (ABC/ESPN+)

The Hudson River rivalry is always exciting, especially when both teams are in the playoff hunt. The Devils currently have a lead over the Rangers, making these two points vital for the Rangers as they chase a wild card spot.

Florida Panthers at Ottawa Senators
2 p.m. (ESPN+)

This matchup could be a first-round playoff series. For now, it`s their final regular-season game. Unfortunately, Matthew Tkachuk is out with an injury.

Pittsburgh Penguins at Dallas Stars
3 p.m. (ABC/ESPN+)

The Penguins are still in playoff contention, but their chances are slim. The Stars have already secured a playoff berth and are aiming for the top seed in the Central Division.

Anaheim Ducks at Vancouver Canucks
4 p.m. (ESPN+)

The Ducks are out of playoff contention and focused on the draft lottery. The Canucks` playoff hopes are fading.

Edmonton Oilers at Los Angeles Kings
4 p.m. (ESPN+)

These teams have met in the first round of the last three postseasons, with the Oilers winning each time. This game could be a preview of a future playoff series.

Carolina Hurricanes at Boston Bruins
7 p.m. (ESPN+)

Carolina has clinched a playoff spot and is likely to be the second seed in their division. The Bruins are likely to miss the playoffs for the first time since 2015-16 and are currently near the top of the draft lottery order.

Tampa Bay Lightning at Buffalo Sabres
7 p.m. (ESPN+)

The Lightning have been strong recently and are aiming for the top spot in their division. The Sabres are likely to miss the playoffs again and are in the draft lottery conversation.

Columbus Blue Jackets at Toronto Maple Leafs
7 p.m. (ESPN+)

The Blue Jackets are still in the wild card race and need points. The Maple Leafs are leading their division and could face the Senators in the first round of the playoffs.

Philadelphia Flyers at Montreal Canadiens
7 p.m. (ESPN+)

The Canadiens are surprisingly holding a wild card spot. Philadelphia is in the draft lottery mix.

Colorado Avalanche at St. Louis Blues
7 p.m. (ESPN+)

These two teams are playing well and could meet later in the playoffs. St. Louis is currently in a wild card spot, and Colorado is likely to be the third seed in their division.

Winnipeg Jets at Utah Hockey Club
7 p.m. (NHLN)

Utah is playing meaningful games late in the season, a significant improvement. The Jets are competing for the Presidents` Trophy as the league`s top team.

Vegas Golden Knights at Calgary Flames
10 p.m. (ESPN+)

The Golden Knights` division lead has shrunk, but they still hold a regulation wins tiebreaker advantage. Calgary is trying to catch up in the wild card race.

Seattle Kraken at San Jose Sharks
10 p.m. (ESPN+)

This game is crucial for the draft lottery standings. San Jose is currently in last place, but only slightly ahead of Chicago. The Kraken are in the middle of the draft lottery pack.