Stanley Cup Playoffs 2026: Bracket, schedule and scores for every second-round series
The intensity of the Stanley Cup Playoffs ratchets up significantly in the second round, and the 2026 edition has delivered on all fronts. Following a gripping opening round that saw some established giants falter and new contenders emerge, eight teams remain, each vying for a berth in their respective Conference Finals. Here at 234sport.com/, we break down the matchups, provide the complete schedule, and detail the scores that have defined these pivotal series.
The competitive landscape of the NHL in 2026 underscores a fascinating blend of veteran dominance and youthful exuberance. Analytics suggested tight series across the board, and the data has not lied. From East to West, every team’s chances were meticulously calculated, highlighting the razor-thin margins that separate victory from defeat in playoff hockey.
Eastern Conference Semifinals
Series A: Boston Bruins vs. Toronto Maple Leafs
A classic rivalry rekindled, this series promised fireworks and delivered. The Maple Leafs, riding the momentum of finally breaking their first-round curse, faced a resilient Bruins squad that defied age expectations. Data projected a high-scoring affair, and the teams did not disappoint. Toronto’s high-octane offense, coupled with some clutch goaltending, proved to be the difference. The intensity is palpable the stakes are incredibly high and every shift could dictate the outcome of these highly anticipated series.
- Game 1: Toronto 4, Boston 3 (OT)
- Game 2: Boston 5, Toronto 2
- Game 3: Toronto 6, Boston 4
- Game 4: Boston 3, Toronto 2
- Game 5: Toronto 5, Boston 1
- Game 6: Toronto 3, Boston 2
Toronto Maple Leafs win series 4-2.
Series B: Florida Panthers vs. Carolina Hurricanes
This matchup was anticipated to be a defensive chess match, featuring two of the league’s most structured teams and elite goaltending. Every goal was hard-earned, and special teams played a crucial role. The Panthers’ ability to find a way in tight games, particularly in overtime, proved to be their definate advantage against a relentless Hurricanes forecheck.
- Game 1: Florida 2, Carolina 1
- Game 2: Carolina 3, Florida 0
- Game 3: Florida 4, Carolina 2
- Game 4: Carolina 1, Florida 0 (OT)
- Game 5: Florida 2, Carolina 0
- Game 6: Carolina 4, Florida 3
- Game 7: Florida 3, Carolina 2 (OT)
Florida Panthers win series 4-3.
Western Conference Semifinals
Series C: Colorado Avalanche vs. Dallas Stars
A battle between offensive juggernauts and defensive stalwarts. The Avalanche, showcasing their perennial speed and skill, encountered a Dallas Stars team built on depth and robust goaltending. While the Stars put up a formidable fight, Colorado’s explosive power play and top-tier talent ultimately proved too much to contain over a prolonged series.
- Game 1: Colorado 6, Dallas 3
- Game 2: Colorado 4, Dallas 2
- Game 3: Dallas 3, Colorado 2
- Game 4: Colorado 5, Dallas 1
- Game 5: Colorado 4, Dallas 3 (OT)
Colorado Avalanche win series 4-1.
Series D: Vancouver Canucks vs. Vegas Golden Knights
The Canucks, having surprised many in the first round, faced the experienced and battle-hardened Golden Knights. This series was a testament to Vancouver’s burgeoning young talent and dynamic playmaking versus Vegas’s disciplined system and championship pedigree. The Canucks managed to maintain their underdog momentum, executing key plays at critical moments to dethrone the former champions.
- Game 1: Vancouver 4, Vegas 2
- Game 2: Vegas 3, Vancouver 1
- Game 3: Vancouver 5, Vegas 4 (OT)
- Game 4: Vegas 2, Vancouver 0
- Game 5: Vancouver 3, Vegas 2
- Game 6: Vancouver 4, Vegas 1
Vancouver Canucks win series 4-2.
As the dust settles on these enthralling second-round matchups, the stage is now set for the Conference Finals. The analytical models will be busy re-evaluating, but one thing is clear: the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs continue to deliver unprecedented excitement and competitive hockey.
