NEW YORK – Tampa Bay Lightning right wing Nikita Kucherov, Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Erik Karlsson and Boston Bruins center Pavel Zacha have been named the NHL’s “Three Stars” for the month of March presented by GEICO.

FIRST STAR – NIKITA KUCHEROV, RW, TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING

Kucherov, despite missing two games, led the NHL with 9-17—26 in 14 contests to power the Lightning (46-22-6, 98 points) to an 8-6-2 month as they neared their second straight 100-point season and third in the past five years (also 2021-22). He found the scoresheet in 11 of his 14 appearances to additionally rank among the top March performers in assists (1st; 17), even-strength points (t-2nd; 18), even-strength assists (t-3rd; 11), goals (t-8th; 9), even-strength goals (t-8th; 7) and plus/minus (t-8th; +10). The two-time defending Art Ross Trophy winner registered four assists on March 7 at TOR to hit the 100-point milestone for the fourth straight season and sixth time overall – tied for the seventh-most in League history. He finished the month with six total multi-point performances, including a trio of games with at least four points (also March 17 at SEA: 3-2—5 and March 21 at EDM: 2-2—4), while ultimately reaching the 120-point mark for the third consecutive year and fourth time overall – a total achieved by just eight other players in NHL history: Wayne Gretzky (14), Mario Lemieux (8), Marcel Dionne (6), Phil Esposito (6), Guy Lafleur (5), Jaromir Jagr (4), Connor McDavid (4) and Bobby Orr (4). The 32-year-old Kucherov sits second in the League with 40-81—121 through 68 overall games this season, also placing among the leaders in points per game (1st; 1.78), assists (2nd; 81), power-play assists (t-3rd; 29), plus/minus (4th; +42), goals (t-5th; 40), game-winning goals (t-5th; 7) and power-play points (6th; 36).

SECOND STAR – ERIK KARLSSON, D, PITTSBURGH PENGUINS

Karlsson topped defensemen and placed second in the entire NHL with 9-15—24 in 17 games to propel the Penguins (38-21-16, 92 points) to an 8-6-3 March as they maintained their hold on second place in the Metropolitan Division. His nine goals were the most in a calendar month by a Pittsburgh blueliner, ahead of the eight scored by Paul Coffey in December 1990 (17 GP), while his 24 points ranked second only to Coffey’s 28 in February 1990 (6-22—28 in 14 GP). Karlsson also became the third defenseman this century to score at least nine goals in a single month (for any team), joining Sergei Gonchar (10 in January 2000 w/ WSH) and Mike Green (9 in February 2009 w/ WSH). At 35 years, 304 days on the final day of March, Karlsson became the oldest blueliner in League history to record at least 24 points in a single month – ahead of Roman Josi, who was 31 years, 303 days when he concluded March 2022 with 4-24—28 (w/ NSH). Karlsson, a three-time James Norris Memorial Trophy winner, sits ninth among defensemen with 13-47—60 through 70 total appearances this season – his eighth career 60-point campaign and first since producing a career-high 25-76—101 in 2022-23 (w/ SJS).

THIRD STAR – PAVEL ZACHA, C, BOSTON BRUINS

Zacha paced the NHL with 13 goals in 16 games (13-9—22) to lift the Bruins (43-24-8, 94 points) into the first Wild Card position in the Eastern Conference on the strength of a 23-point March (10-3-3) – the second-most standings points in the League behind the Buffalo Sabres (11-2-2, 24 points). Zacha became the fifth Boston player in the last 42 years (since 1983-84) to score at least 13 goals in a single month, following Brad Marchand (14 in April 2021), David Pastrnak (13 in January 2023), Jarome Iginla (13 in March 2014) and Cam Neely (13 in January 1994). Zacha scored in half of his 16 March outings, highlighted by his second career hat trick March 8 at PIT. He also picked up points in 13 of his 16 appearances, including seven multi-point efforts. The 28-year-old Zacha, playing in his 11th NHL season, ranks third on the Bruins with career highs in both goals (28) and points (60) through 72 total contests in 2025-26 (28-32—60).

NEW YORK – St. Louis Blues right wing Jimmy Snuggerud, who posted 7-8—15 in 14 games to lift the Blues to a 10-2-2 March – the best record in the Western Conference – and within four points of a playoff spot, has been named the NHL’s “Rookie of the Month.”

Snuggerud edged New York Islanders teammates Matthew Schaefer (4-12—16 in 16 GP) and Calum Ritchie (5-6—11 in 16 GP), New York Rangers right wing Gabe Perreault (4-10—14 in 16 GP), and Montreal Canadiens teammates Jakub Dobes (7-3-0, 2.21 GAA, .927 SV%) and Ivan Demidov (4‑7—11 in 15 GP) for the honor.

Snuggerud collected points in 10 of his 14 appearances to lead March rookies in goals (7), even-strength goals (7), even-strength assists (7), even-strength points (14), plus/minus (+14) and game-winning goals (t-2), while also ranking among the top three rookies in points (2nd; 15), shots on goal (2nd; 45) and assists (3rd; 8). He produced four straight multi-point performances from March 6-12 (5-4—9), a run achieved by only one other rookie in Blues history: Brian Benning (March 21-29, 1987: 2-9—11 in 5 GP).

Snuggerud became the first St. Louis rookie to accumulate at least 15 points in a single calendar month since November 1989, when Rod Brind’Amour totaled 6-9—15 across 14 contests. Snuggerud also became the fourth Blues rookie this century to score at least seven goals in one calendar month, joining Zachary Bolduc (8 in March 2025), David Backes (7 in February 2007) and Marty Reasoner (7 in February 2000).

The 21-year-old Snuggerud, a first-round pick (23rd overall) from the 2022 NHL Draft, has registered 17-22—39 through 61 total games this season to place among the rookie leaders in game-winning goals (1st; 5), power-play goals (t-3rd; 4), goals (t-4th; 17), points (t-4th; 39), shots on goal (5th; 144), assists (t-5th; 22), plus/minus (6th; +8) and power-play points (t-10th; 8). He is on pace to become the third St. Louis rookie in the past 30 years to notch at least 40 points in a season, following Patrik Berglund (21-26—47 in 2008-09) and Jim Campbell (23-20—43 in 1996-97).

Snuggerud – who joins Schaefer (October), Minnesota Wild goaltender Jesper Wallstedt (November), Demidov (December) and Boston Bruins center Fraser Minten (January) as a recipient in 2025-26 – is the first Blues player selected as a “Rookie of the Month” since goaltender Jordan Binnington in March and February 2019. Snuggerud also is the first St. Louis skater in 13 years to receive the honor, following right wing Vladimir Tarasenko in January 2013.

Jimmy Snuggerud in March

Puck drop is scheduled for 10:30 PM EDT / 7:30 PM PDT
TV/Streaming: ESPN+ / FDSNSO / FDSNW

Game Overview

Both Western Conference teams are battling for playoff positioning in the final stretch, with Nashville (5th in Central, 8th in West) and Los Angeles (4th in Pacific, 9th in West) separated by just a point or two in the wild-card race. The Predators bring more offensive firepower on the road but have been inconsistent lately, while the Kings boast one of the league’s better defenses and home-ice stability despite sputtering scoring. This is a low-event, grind-it-out matchup with major implications for postseason hopes.

Recent Form

Nashville Predators (2-3-0 in last 5):

• Mar 29: L 2-3 @ TBL
• Mar 28: L 1-4 vs MTL
• Mar 27: L 2-4 vs NJD
• Mar 25: W 6-3 vs SJS
• Mar 22: W 3-2 (OT) @ CHI

Nashville is 5-4-1 in its last 10 overall and has scored efficiently in wins but struggled defensively in the recent three-game skid. They are 14-16-6 on the road this season.

Los Angeles Kings (1-3-1 in last 5):

• Mar 29: L 2-6 vs UTA
• Mar 27: W 4-0 @ VAN
• Mar 25: L 2-3 (SO) @ CGY
• Mar 23: L 3-4 (OT) @ UTA
• Mar 21: L 1-4 vs BUF

LA is 3-3-4 in its last 10 and has been shut out or held to two goals in multiple recent losses. The Kings are 10-17-8 at home but own a strong defensive identity (2.93 GAA, 9th in NHL).

Injury Report

Nashville Predators

• No injuries reported. Full roster available, providing depth and continuity.

Los Angeles Kings

• Samuel Helenius (C) – Day-to-Day (undisclosed); expected return ~April 3-4.
• Andrei Kuzmenko (LW) – OUT (knee/meniscus, IR); return ~April 16.
• Kevin Fiala (LW) – OUT (leg, season-ending); return 2026-27 training camp.

LA is missing significant forward depth, which hurts their already anemic offense (2.62 GF/G, 29th). Nashville enters healthy and motivated.

Player Matchups & Key Lines to Watch

Nashville Predators (Projected Top Contributors)

• Forward Lines: Filip Forsberg (34G-33A-67P), Ryan O’Reilly (24G-42A-66P), and Steven Stamkos (36G-22A-58P) form a dangerous top six. Luke Evangelista adds 40 assists.
• Defense: Solid puck-movers but vulnerable (3.31 GAA, 27th).
• Goaltending: Juuse Saros (26-20-7, 3.13 GAA, .894 SV%) or Justus Annunen (8-11-2, 2.90 GAA, .899 SV%) expected; Saros likely gets the nod on the road.

Los Angeles Kings

• Forward Lines: Limited secondary scoring; team ranks 29th in goals per game. Top contributors lean on defensive structure over star power.
• Defense: Elite suppression (27.2 SA/G).
• Goaltending: Strong team metrics (2.93 GAA, .893 SV%, 5 SO); specific starter TBD but reliable.

Key Matchups:

• Preds’ top line (Forsberg/O’Reilly/Stamkos) vs. Kings’ shutdown defense – Nashville’s speed could create chances if LA’s depleted forwards struggle.
• Special teams: Nashville PP 22.3% (12th), PK 81.1% (29th); LA PP 17.5% (29th), PK 74.8% (solid but tested).
• Faceoffs: Nashville edges with Stamkos/O’Reilly at 55%+; LA 49.2% (20th).

Series History

Nashville leads the 2025-26 season series 1-0 (5-4 win on Oct. 25). Historically, the Kings hold a slight all-time edge (40-36-3-9), but the Preds have won recent head-to-heads in regulation or OT/SO. Small-sample road history in LA favors the home side slightly.

Betting Trends

Total has gone Under in several low-event Kings home games.

Nashville is 5-4-1 in last 10 and strong in recent wins vs. weaker opponents.

Over is live in Preds games with high-scoring bursts, but Kings games trend Under (defensive focus).

LA is a slight home favorite but 1-3-1 recently and missing key forwards.

Puck drop is scheduled for 10:00 PM EDT / 7:00 PM PDT
TV/Streaming: ESPN+ / Hulu Game Overview

This late-season Pacific/Central crossover matchup features two teams with contrasting playoff trajectories. Utah sits in a solid playoff position (4th in the Central Division with 82 points) and has looked sharp offensively of late, while Seattle (5th/6th in the Pacific, 75 points) is fighting for the final wild-card spot but has been inconsistent and leaky defensively. The Mammoth enter as road favorites in a building where they have historically struggled against the Kraken.

Recent Form

Utah Mammoth (2-2-1 in last 5):

• Mar 28: W 6-2 @ LAK
• Mar 26: L 4-7 vs WSH
• Mar 24: L 2-5 vs EDM
• Mar 22: W 4-3 (OT) vs LAK
• Mar 20: L 1-4 vs ANA

Utah has scored 17 goals in its last five games and closed with a convincing road win over the Kings. The Mammoth are 6-2 SU in their last eight road games overall but have shown vulnerability against strong Western foes.

Seattle Kraken (1-3-1 in last 5):

• Mar 31: L 0-3 @ EDM
• Mar 28: L 2-3 (SO) @ BUF
• Mar 26: W 4-3 (OT) @ TBL
• Mar 24: L 4-5 (SO) @ FLA
• Mar 21: L 2-5 @ CBJ

Seattle is 3-5-2 in its last 10 and has been shut out once while allowing 3+ goals in four of the last five. The Kraken’s road-heavy stretch exposed defensive and goaltending issues, though they can generate offense in spurts.

Injury Report

Utah Mammoth

• Barrett Hayton (C) – OUT (upper-body); week-to-week, expected return ~April 14.

Seattle Kraken

• Shane Wright (C) – Day-to-Day (undisclosed/upper-body); did not play March 31, possible for tonight.
• Ryan Winterton (C) – OUT (personal/family matter); expected return ~April 4.
• Max McCormick (LW) – OUT (hip surgery, season-ending).

Utah is missing a key middle-six forward, but their top-line depth remains intact. Seattle’s forward group is thinner, which could impact penalty-kill and faceoff situations.

Player Matchups & Key Lines to Watch

Utah Mammoth (Projected Top Contributors)

• Forward Lines: Clayton Keller (22G-51A-73P) and Dylan Guenther (36G-26A-62P) lead a dangerous top six alongside Nick Schmaltz (27G-38A-65P). Logan Cooley has been heating up (recent multi-goal games).
• Defense: Mikhail Sergachev (10G-43A-53P in 70 GP) and John Marino provide puck-moving ability.
• Goaltending: Karel Vejmelka (33-19-3, 2.69 GAA, .899 SV%, 2 SO) is the likely starter and has been the workhorse (57 GP). He gives Utah elite goaltending on the road. nhl.com

Seattle Kraken

• Forward Lines: The Kraken rely on secondary scoring; they rank 26th in goals per game (2.81). Without Wright (if out), the middle six is depleted.
• Defense: Struggles suppressing shots (29.3 SA/G).
• Goaltending: Joey Daccord (19-18-6, 2.81 GAA, .901 SV%) or Philipp Grubauer is expected. Daccord has been the primary option lately.

Key Matchups:

• Utah’s top line (Keller/Guenther/Schmaltz) vs. Seattle’s top defense pair – Utah’s speed and skill should create high-danger chances.
• Special teams: Utah PP 18.3% (22nd), PK 79% (16th); Seattle PP 20.4% (17th) but PK 73.6% (31st) – a major liability.
• Faceoffs: Utah 49.4% (19th) vs. Seattle 47.9% (25th).

Series History

Utah leads the all-time series 3-2-0 (goal differential +6). This season, the Mammoth are 2-0 against Seattle (both wins at home: 6-3 on Jan. 17 and 5-3 on Dec. 12). Seattle has not beaten Utah in regulation since the 2024-25 season and is 0-2-0 in 2025-26 head-to-head matchups. Historically on the road in Seattle, Utah is 0-5 SU in its last five visits, though sample size is small.

Betting Trends

The total has gone Under in several recent Kraken games (including the last two).

Utah is 6-2 SU in last 8 road games and 5-1 SU in last 6 road games vs. teams with losing home records.

Over is 7-2 in Utah’s last 9 games vs. teams with a losing record; Over is 9-4-1 in Mammoth’s last 14 Thursday games.

Utah is 1-4 SU as a road favorite of -151 to -200 range.

Seattle is 2-3 ATS and 2-3 SU in last 5 games.

Puck drop is scheduled for 10:00 PM EDT (7:00 PM PT)
Venue: SAP Center at San Jose, San Jose, CA
Broadcast: TSN4, NBCSCA, ESPN+; League Pass / Radio affiliates

This late-season Pacific-Atlantic interconference matchup features a Maple Leafs team clinging to slim wild-card hopes (7th in the Atlantic) visiting a Sharks squad still mathematically alive in the Pacific Division playoff picture (5th in the Pacific). San Jose hosts at SAP Center (solid 18-12-5 home mark) and is motivated to push for positioning, while Toronto (14-18-5 on the road) enters depleted and on shaky recent form. The Sharks have had the upper hand in recent head-to-head meetings.

Injury Report

Toronto Maple Leafs (devastating long-term absences in core and blueline):

• Auston Matthews (C) – Out for season (grade 3 MCL tear + quad contusion; knee surgery March 2026)
• Chris Tanev (D) – Out for season (abdomen/core muscle surgery)

San Jose Sharks (multiple day-to-day and week-to-week concerns):

• John Klingberg (D) – Day-to-Day (lower body)
• Ty Dellandrea (C) – Out (lower body; week-to-week, IR)
• Ryan Reaves (RW) – Out (hand; week-to-week)
• Igor Chernyshov (LW) – Day-to-Day (illness)

Toronto is without its captain and a key defenseman, forcing heavy minutes on the remaining veterans and young depth. San Jose’s absences are more manageable but thin the bottom-six and blueline.

Recent Team Forms (Last 5 Games)

Toronto Maple Leafs (mixed; 1-4 SU in recent stretch per reports):
Recent results show offensive inconsistency without Matthews, with losses to STL, NSH, PHI, BUF, and EDM contributing to a slide that has hurt their playoff push.

San Jose Sharks (competitive; 2-3 SU lately):
Sharks have shown resilience at home with timely scoring but have been streaky overall, including recent results against STL, NSH, and others.

Key Player Matchups

• Mitch Marner / William Nylander (TOR) vs. Sharks defense (Klingberg if active): Without Matthews, Toronto’s stars must generate offense against a structured San Jose group.
• Macklin Celebrini / Tomas Hertl (SJS) vs. Maple Leafs checking lines: Celebrini’s speed and Hertl’s veteran presence should exploit any defensive lapses.
• Blueline/Goaltending: Toronto’s makeshift D vs. San Jose transition game; Sharks netminding projects favorably at home.
• Secondary Scoring: Sharks depth vs. Leafs call-ups – home energy amplifies San Jose’s pace and odd-man rush opportunities.

San Jose’s speed and special teams project favorably across most matchups.

Series History

The Sharks lead the 2025-26 season series (specific edge noted in recent meetings, including a 3-2 OT win for SJS earlier). San Jose has performed well against Toronto lately, with competitive but home-favoring results.

Betting Trends

Recent head-to-head and Toronto’s road woes tilt toward San Jose covering.

Sharks strong at home as favorites; Maple Leafs poor on the road without Matthews.

Puck drop is scheduled for 10:00 PM EDT
Venue: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, NV
Broadcast: ESPN+, SCRIPPS; League Pass / Radio affiliates

This Pacific Division interconference tilt pits a Flames team mathematically eliminated from playoff contention (7th in the Pacific) against a Golden Knights squad still in the mix for home-ice positioning (3rd in the Pacific). Vegas hosts at T-Mobile Arena (17-12-9 home record) and enters motivated to solidify its standing, while Calgary (10-23-3 on the road) is on a three-game road losing skid and playing spoiler hockey with a heavily depleted roster. The teams have already met three times this season, with Vegas holding a 2-1-0 edge.

Injury Report

Calgary Flames (roster decimated across forward and blueline groups):

• Connor Zary (C) – Day-to-Day (upper body)
• Yan Kuznetsov (D) – Day-to-Day (upper body)
• Joel Hanley (D) – Out (upper body; season-ending)
• Samuel Honzek (LW) – Out for season (upper body)
• Jonathan Huberdeau (LW) – Out for season (hip)
• Jonathan Castagna (RW) – Out (until at least April 16)

Vegas Golden Knights (key absences in net, center, and defense):

• William Karlsson (C) – Out (lower body)
• Carter Hart (G) – Out (lower body/leg; IR until at least April 11)
• Jonas Rondbjerg (RW) – Out (lower body)
• Alex Pietrangelo (D) – Out (hip)

Calgary’s injuries force heavy call-up usage and limit secondary scoring/depth; Vegas remains competitive despite the absences thanks to its veteran core.

Recent Team Forms (Last 5 Games)

Calgary Flames (2-3-0 overall; poor road form):
Recent results include a blowout loss to Colorado (2-9) and struggles to generate consistent offense on the road, where they are 1-7 SU in their last 8 games.

Vegas Golden Knights (3-2-0):
Vegas has shown efficiency at home with strong special-teams play and timely scoring, though they have been streaky overall in recent weeks.

Key Player Matchups

• Flames young core / depth forwards vs. Vegas shutdown pairs: Calgary’s depleted top-six (without Huberdeau, Zary questionable) must rely on call-ups against a structured Knights defense.
• Tomas Hertl / Mark Stone (VGK) vs. Flames checking lines: Hertl (24G-31A) remains a focal point for Vegas’ scoring.
• Blueline/Goaltending: Flames makeshift D vs. Vegas transition game; Vegas netminding (without Hart) still projects favorably at home.
• Secondary Scoring: Knights depth vs. Flames call-ups – home energy amplifies Vegas’ edge in pace and odd-man rushes.

Vegas’ speed, special teams, and defensive structure project a clear advantage across the ice.

Series History

Vegas leads the 2025-26 season series 2-1-0 (including a 6-1 win and a 4-2 victory; Flames took the most recent 6-3 contest). The Golden Knights have historically owned this matchup, going strong in recent head-to-heads at T-Mobile Arena. Games have been competitive but tilt toward Vegas’ home execution.

Betting Trends

Totals trend Under in many Flames Pacific Division games

Flames are 1-7 SU in their last 8 road games and 2-12 SU in their last 14 road games vs. Vegas.

Golden Knights are 3-2 SU in their last 5 and strong as home favorites.

Puck drop is scheduled for 9:00 PM EDT
Venue: Rogers Place, Edmonton, AB
Broadcast: CHSN, SNW, TVAS; League Pass / Radio affiliates

This late-season Pacific-Central interconference matchup features a Blackhawks team that is mathematically eliminated from playoff contention and playing out the string versus an Oilers squad still fighting for positioning in the Pacific Division (currently 2nd) and looking to lock in home-ice advantage. Edmonton hosts at Rogers Place (strong recent home dominance) and enters on a four-game win streak, while Chicago (poor road record) arrives on a lengthy losing skid. The Oilers have dominated recent head-to-head play in this rivalry.

Injury Report

Chicago Blackhawks (multiple long-term absences thinning defense and depth):

• Andrew Mangiapane (LW) – Out (upper body; expected return ~April 9–15; confirmed unavailable for this contest)
• Matt Grzelcyk (D) – Out for season (upper body)
• Artyom Levshunov (D) – Out for season (hand)
• Oliver Moore (C) – Out (lower body; expected return ~April 11)

Edmonton Oilers (key center missing but core otherwise intact):

• Leon Draisaitl (C) – Injured Reserve – Long Term (lower body; expected return ~April 20)
• Colton Dach (C) – Injured Reserve – Long Term (expected return ~April 4)
• Mattias Janmark (C) – Injured Reserve – Long Term

Chicago’s blueline and forward depth are severely compromised, forcing heavier minutes on young stars like Connor Bedard. Edmonton’s absence of Draisaitl hurts top-six scoring but their elite speed and goaltending remain intact.

Recent Team Forms (Last 5 Games)

Chicago Blackhawks (0-4-1):

• 3/31 vs WPG: L 4-3 (OT)
• 3/29 @ NJD: L 5-3
• 3/27 @ NYR: L 6-1
• 3/26 @ PHI: L 5-1
• 3/24 vs NYI: L (part of broader skid)

Chicago has been outscored badly, struggling defensively and in net during a multi-game slide.

Edmonton Oilers (4-1-0):

• 3/31 vs SEA: W 3-0
• 3/28 vs ANA: W 4-2
• 3/26 @ VGK: W 4-3 (OT)
• 3/24 @ UTA: W 5-2
• Earlier result contributing to current surge

Edmonton has been dominant lately with strong special teams, timely scoring, and shutdown defense.

Key Player Matchups

• Connor Bedard / Blackhawks young core vs. Oilers shutdown pairs and goaltending: Bedard remains Chicago’s primary threat, but Edmonton’s structure limits space.
• Connor McDavid / Zach Hyman / Evan Bouchard (EDM) vs. Blackhawks depleted blueline: McDavid’s speed and playmaking should generate high-danger chances against a makeshift Chicago defense.
• Secondary Scoring/Depth: Oilers balanced lines vs. Blackhawks call-ups – home energy amplifies Edmonton’s transition edge.
• Goaltending Battle: Chicago’s netminder (likely a backup/call-up amid injuries) vs. Edmonton’s stable tandem – Oilers hold a significant edge.

Edmonton’s speed, special teams, and defensive structure project a clear advantage across the ice.

Series History

The Oilers have owned this matchup, going 9-1-0 in their last 10 games against the Blackhawks with a strong goal differential. In the 2025-26 season, Edmonton has secured multiple victories (including 3-2 on Nov. 1 and 4-1 on Jan. 12). Recent head-to-head games have favored Edmonton’s pace and star execution at home.

Betting Trends

Totals trend Over in Chicago road games.

Chicago is 1-6 SU in its last 7 and 1-10 SU in its last 11 vs. Edmonton.

Edmonton is 3-2 SU/ATS in last 5 and strong at home as favorites.

Puck drop is scheduled for Thursday, April 2, 2026 – 8:00 PM EDT (7:00 PM CT)
Venue: Grand Casino Arena, St. Paul, MN
Broadcast: FDSNNO, FDSNWI, SNP, ESPN+; Radio affiliates

This late-season Central-Pacific interconference matchup pits a struggling Canucks team (last in the Pacific, all but eliminated from playoff contention) against a Wild squad firmly in the Central Division playoff picture (3rd in the division, battling for home-ice positioning). Minnesota hosts with a strong 20-10-8 home record and superior underlying metrics, while Vancouver (13-19-3 away) is on a lengthy losing skid and playing out the string with a depleted roster. The teams split their 2025-26 season series 1-1.

Injury Report

Vancouver Canucks (multiple long-term absences gutting goaltending, defense, and depth):

• Evander Kane (LW) – Undisclosed, out until at least April 2
• Derek Forbort (D) – Undisclosed, out for the season
• Thatcher Demko (G) – Hip, out for the season
• Filip Chytil (C) – Face, out until at least April 4

Minnesota Wild (no major injuries reported in latest previews; core intact):
No significant absences noted for key players. Any day-to-day concerns (e.g., earlier mentions of Brodin or Wallstedt) appear resolved or non-impacting for this contest.

Vancouver’s injury-ravaged lineup forces heavy reliance on call-ups and young forwards, severely limiting their defensive structure and netminding options.

Recent Team Forms (Last 5 Games)

Vancouver Canucks (0-5-0):

• vs VGK: L
• @ CGY: L
• vs LAK: L
• @ ANA: L
• vs STL: L (part of broader 2-8-0 stretch in last 10)

The Canucks have been outscored badly and are leaking goals while generating little sustained offense.

Minnesota Wild (2-3-0):

• @ BOS: L
• @ FLA: W
• @ TBL: L
• vs DAL: W (OT)
• vs CHI: L (part of 4-5-1 stretch in last 10)

Minnesota has shown resilience at times with strong special teams but has been inconsistent on the road; they remain dangerous at home.

Key Player Matchups

• Elias Pettersson / Brock Boeser / J.T. Miller (VAN, if active) vs. Minnesota’s shutdown defense and goaltending: Vancouver needs star production to compete, but Minnesota’s structure limits space.
• Kirill Kaprizov / Mats Zuccarello (MIN) vs. Canucks depleted blueline: Kaprizov’s speed and finishing should create high-danger chances against a makeshift Vancouver defense.
• Quinn Hughes (VAN) vs. Wild forecheck: Hughes logs heavy minutes but faces pressure in a building where Minnesota controls pace.
• Goaltending: Likely a Canucks backup or call-up (with Demko out) vs. Minnesota’s stable netminding – Wild hold a significant edge here.

Minnesota’s speed, special teams, and defensive depth project a clear advantage in most one-on-one and team battles.

Series History

The 2025-26 season series is split 1-1 (Wild won 5-2 on Nov. 1; Canucks won 4-2 on Dec. 6). Historically, the Wild have had success against Vancouver in recent years, but games have been competitive. Minnesota owns home-ice advantage in this rivalry and has the edge in underlying play this season.

Betting Trends

Canucks are 2-8-0 in their last 10 and abysmal as road underdogs.

Wild are 4-5-1 in last 10 but strong at home with elite metrics; they cover as favorites against bottom-tier teams.

Puck drop is scheduled for 8:00 PM EDT (7:00 PM CT)
Venue: American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX
Broadcast: Victory+, TSN3; League Pass / Radio affiliates

This Central Division matchup features a playoff-hungry Jets squad (6th in the Central, 10th in the West, still in the wild-card mix) visiting a strong Dallas team (2nd in the Central, 2nd in the West) that has already secured a top seed and home-ice advantage. The Stars host at the American Airlines Center (22-10-4 home record) and enter with superior depth and underlying metrics, while Winnipeg (14-16-6 away) is battling inconsistency on the road. Dallas won the most recent meeting 4-3 in OT on Feb. 2.

Injury Report

Winnipeg Jets (significant forward and blueline absences):

• Morgan Barron (C) – Out (concussion; est. return Apr. 4)
• Colin Miller (D) – IR (est. return Apr. 6)
• Nino Niederreiter (RW) – IR (est. return Apr. 11)
• Vladislav Namestnikov (C) – Out (lower body; est. return Apr. 4)

Dallas Stars (no major injuries reported; core intact):
No significant absences listed for key players. Any lingering concerns from earlier season (e.g., Mikko Rantanen lower-body post-Olympics) appear resolved or not impacting availability as of latest updates. Dallas enters with full top-six and defensive depth.

The Jets’ depleted forward group and blueline depth force heavier minutes on stars like Mark Scheifele and Josh Morrissey (if active), creating exploitable gaps against Dallas’ structured forecheck.

Recent Team Forms (Last 5-10 Games)

Winnipeg Jets (mixed; 6-2-2 in last 10 per some reports, but recent skid elements noted):
Recent results show offensive flashes but defensive lapses on the road, with a shootout win in one of the latest outings contributing to playoff push efforts.

Dallas Stars (3-5-2 in last 10; strong home stretch):
Dallas has been streaky but efficient at home, with timely scoring and elite goaltending propping up results despite a couple of regulation losses. They continue to control games with pace and special teams.

Key Player Matchups

• Mark Scheifele / Kyle Connor (WPG) vs. Dallas shutdown pairs and goaltending: Scheifele’s playmaking must generate offense against a stingy Stars defense.
• Mikko Rantanen / Jason Robertson (DAL) vs. Jets blueline (depleted without Miller): Rantanen’s scoring touch and Robertson’s speed should create odd-man rushes.
• Connor Hellebuyck (WPG, strong .891+ SV% lately) vs. Jake Oettinger (DAL, 2.73 GAA, .896 SV%): Oettinger’s home form gives Dallas the net advantage.
• Secondary/Depth: Jets call-ups vs. Stars balanced attack – home energy amplifies Dallas’ transition edge.

Dallas’ speed, special teams, and defensive structure project favorably across the ice.

Series History

Dallas leads the all-time series and has owned recent meetings (including a 4-3 OT win on Feb. 2, 2026, and earlier victories). The Stars are 8-5 SU in recent head-to-head and strong at home against Winnipeg. Games have been competitive but tilt toward Dallas’ depth and goaltending.

Betting Trends

• Stars are 4-1 SU/ATS in last 5 and dominant at home; Jets 4-1 SU in select recent games but poor as road dogs.
• Totals trend Over in 17 of Stars’ last 36 home games but tighter in divisional clashes.

Puck drop is scheduled for 7:30 PM EDT
Venue: Prudential Center, Newark, NJ
Broadcast: ESPN+, Hulu, MSG SN / Devils Hockey Radio Network; League Pass

This Metropolitan Division clash carries late-season playoff implications as both teams hover around the wild-card bubble. The Capitals (6th in the Metro) ride a three-game win streak into Newark and are 15-17-4 on the road, while the Devils (7th in the Metro) host with a 19-15-2 home mark but enter on a 1-2-0 skid in their last three. New Jersey is coming off a 4-1 loss at the Rangers on Tuesday and will look to leverage home ice and speed against a surging Washington squad.

Injury Report

Washington Capitals (forward depth tested):

• Aliaksei Protas (C) – Day-to-Day (upper body)
• Ethen Frank (RW) – Day-to-Day (lower body)

New Jersey Devils (multiple forwards and defense impacted):

• Arseny Gritsyuk (RW) – Day-to-Day (undisclosed / lower body)
• Brett Pesce (D) – Day-to-Day (lower body)
• Stefan Noesen (RW) – Out (knee, IR-LT)
• Zack MacEwen (RW/C) – Out (knee / upper body, IR-LT)

The Capitals’ absences are limited to secondary scoring pieces, preserving their top-six and veteran core. New Jersey’s injuries thin the wing group and blueline depth, forcing heavier minutes for stars like Jack Hughes and the top defensive pairs.

Recent Team Forms (Last 5 Games)

Washington Capitals (3-2-0):

• 3/31 vs PHI: W 6-4
• 3/28 @ VEG: W 5-4 (SO)
• 3/26 @ UTA: W 7-4
• 3/24 @ STL: L 0-3
• 3/22 vs COL: L 3-2 (OT)

Washington has been explosive offensively during the win streak (averaging 6+ goals) but showed defensive vulnerabilities earlier.

New Jersey Devils (3-2-0):

• 3/31 @ NYR: L 4-1
• 3/29 vs CHI: W 5-3
• 3/28 @ CAR: L 5-2
• 3/26 @ NSH: W 4-2
• 3/24 @ DAL: W 6-4

New Jersey has shown offensive punch in wins but has struggled defensively in losses, allowing 4+ goals in three of the last five.

Key Player Matchups

• Alex Ovechkin (WSH) vs. Devils defense (Pesce if active / makeshift pairings): Ovechkin’s power-play presence and net-front battle will test New Jersey’s thinned blueline.
• Jack Hughes / Nico Hischier (NJD) vs. Capitals checking lines and shutdown D: Hughes’ speed and playmaking are the Devils’ best chance to generate transition scoring.
• Dylan Strome / secondary Capitals scoring vs. New Jersey’s top-six: Washington’s depth has clicked lately; expect them to exploit any Devils forward gaps.
• Goaltending Battle: Likely Charlie Lindgren or backup (WSH) vs. Jacob Markstrom or Jake Allen (NJD). Markstrom has been steady but faces pressure behind an injured group.

Washington’s veteran structure and recent offensive form project favorably against New Jersey’s depleted roster.

m.thescore.comSeries HistoryThe teams split their earlier 2025-26 meetings: New Jersey took the Nov. 15 contest in Washington (3-2 SO), while the Capitals won the March 20 matchup at Capital One Arena (2-1). Recent head-to-head has been low-scoring and tightly contested, often decided by special teams or goaltending. All-time, the rivalry remains competitive with no clear dominance.

Betting Trends

Totals trend Over in high-event Devils home games; head-to-head often stays under 6 goals.

Capitals are 3-0 SU in their current streak and strong as slight road dogs.

Devils are 3-2 SU lately but 2-3 ATS in the last 5; home favorites have been reliable but injuries create value questions.