NHL Playoff Race 2026: Philadelphia Flyers Surprise, Predators Holding On & McDavid vs. Kucherov

This Thursday edition of Locked On NHL dives into the chaotic final stretch of the 2026 playoff race, highlighting improbable surges and collapses across both conferences. The Philadelphia Flyers, once written off, have surged into a Metropolitan Division playoff spot thanks to key additions like Porter Martone and strong goaltending from Dan Vladar, while the Red Wings and Blue Jackets falter despite early promise. In the West, the Nashville Predators cling to the second wildcard spot in a historically weak conference, relying on Stephen Stamkos' elite production and a strong tiebreaker record, while the Kings and Sharks battle to catch them in a 'turtle race' defined by low-scoring, overtime-heavy games. The episode closes with a passionate defense of Connor McDavid’s Hart Trophy case, emphasizing his dominance even without Leon Draisaitl, his record-breaking point total, and his ability to carry the Oilers single-handedly—though the hosts acknowledge strong cases for Nikita Kucherov and Macklin Celebrini as well. The hosts stress that the playoff race is far from decided, with teams like Ottawa, Columbus, and even the Kings still in contention despite long odds. They praise the resilience of underdog teams and the sheer unpredictability of the season, calling it one of the most chaotic in recent memory. Despite the drama, the episode ends on a note of excitement, with the final week of the regular season promising high stakes and unforgettable moments. The hosts also highlight the importance of strategic hiring in the offseason, using Indeed Sponsored Jobs as a sponsor to underscore the value of finding the right talent under pressure.