What’s at Stake in the NHL: If Habs clinch, Eastern Conference playoff field is set

We’ve reached the eventful final stretch of the NHL season. At this point, something significant is on the line virtually every day, whether it’s a playoff spot or division title to clinch or a major individual milestone. At Daily Faceoff, we’re here to break down exactly what you need to know between now and the end of the season April 17.

So what’s at stake across the five-game slate for Friday, April 11?

– Is tonight the night for the Montreal Canadiens (39-30-9)? They will clinch a playoff berth if they beat the Ottawa Senators in regulation. They have plenty of other ways into the postseason depending on Saturday’s results, too. Since there’s only one Eastern Conference playoff spot up for grabs: a regulation Habs win Friday eliminates the Columbus Blue Jackets, New York Rangers, Detroit Red Wings and New York Islanders in a single blow.

– The New York Rangers’ (37-35-7) tragic number is one. Even a single point via overtime or shootout loss from the Canadiens Friday will mathematically eliminate the Broadway Blueshirts. The scenario is exactly the same for the New York Islanders (34-33-11).

– A lot must go right for the Detroit Red Wings (36-35-7) to survive the night. Their playoff hopes end if they lose to the Tampa Bay Lightning in any fashion OR if the Habs collect a single point.

– The injury-ravaged Edmonton Oilers (45-28-5) will finally clinch a playoff spot Friday and a top-three position in the Pacific Division if (a) they collect at least a point against the San Jose Sharks or (b) the Calgary Flames lose to the Minnesota Wild in any fashion.

– The stakes are simple for the Minnesota Wild (43-29-7): beat the Calgary Flames Friday and clinch a playoff berth.

– The Habs’ Lane Hutson needs two more assists in Montreal’s final four games to become the second rookie NHL defenseman ever to get 60 in a season. Three assists will break Larry Murphy’s record.

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