NHL Playoff Schedule 2026

The 2026 NHL Playoffs begin April 18, 2026, with the First Round. All 16 playoff teams (8 per conference) start their best-of-7 series simultaneously on April 18.

The 2026 NHL Playoffs air on ESPN, TBS, TNT, and ABC in the United States. All games stream on Max (HBO Max) and ESPN+. The Stanley Cup Finals broadcast exclusively on ABC and ESPN.

First Round and Conference Semifinals games air on ESPN, TBS, and TNT (streaming: Max and ESPN+). Conference Finals feature ABC, ESPN, TNT, and TBS. The Stanley Cup Finals are on ABC and ESPN only.

Four rounds: First Round (16 teams, 8 series), Conference Semifinals (8 teams, 4 series), Conference Finals (4 teams, 2 series), and the Stanley Cup Finals (2 teams, 1 series). All rounds are best-of-7.

Game 1 of the 2026 Stanley Cup Finals is scheduled for June 4, 2026. The series can run through approximately June 24 if it goes to Game 7. Games air on ABC and ESPN.

First Round: April 18 – May 5. Conference Semifinals: ~May 6–22. Conference Finals: ~May 22 – June 5. Stanley Cup Finals: June 4 – ~June 24, 2026.

NHL Playoff games are typically played every other day (with occasional back-to-back days). Each team plays Games 1 and 2 at home, Games 3 and 4 away, then alternates if the series extends. Best-of-7 series last 4–7 games.

ABC games are free over-the-air and on the ESPN app. Some ESPN+ games require a subscription. The NHL app also offers streaming of select games. Check your local cable or streaming provider for full access to all ESPN, TBS, and TNT games.