The 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs are in full swing, bringing the intensity and excitement that hockey fans crave. From bone-crushing hits to game-winning goals, the postseason promises unforgettable moments as teams battle for hockey’s ultimate prize.
This year’s playoffs feature a mix of seasoned contenders and fresh faces. The Winnipeg Jets, having secured the Presidents’ Trophy for the first time in franchise history, aim to translate regular-season success into a deep playoff run. Having survived a close series against St. Louis that ended in a last-minute goal to force double overtime, they’ll now face the Dallas Stars in Round 2. Meanwhile, the Washington Capitals, led by Alex Ovechkin, who recently surpassed Wayne Gretzky’s goal record, enter the postseason with high expectations at the top of the Eastern Conference leaderboard but they’ll have their hands full with a Carolina Hurricanes team that’s been clicking on every level.
The Florida Panthers, last year’s champs, continue their title defense against the Toronto Maple Leafs, while last year’s Finals runner-up, the Edmonton Oilers, square off against the Vegas Golden Knights.
Check back daily for fresh updates on playoff matchups, scores, and TV schedules so you never miss a moment of the action.
For fans who are serious about sports, and only sports, get a channel lineup packed with the games you want – only from DIRECTV.
NHL Playoff Games on Today
WEDNESDAY, MAY 7
Florida Panthers at Toronto Maple Leafs (Round 2, Game 2) – 7:00 PM – ESPN
Game 1 of this Eastern Conference semifinal was a firecracker, and Game 2 promises more of the same as the Florida Panthers look to even the series in Toronto. The Maple Leafs came out flying, powered by a blistering start from William Nylander, who notched two goals and an assist in the first period. But the 5–4 win came with some turbulence — starting goalie Anthony Stolarz exited in the second period following a net-front collision with Florida’s Sam Bennett, thrusting Joseph Woll into action. Woll held the line with 17 saves in relief, helping Toronto survive a furious Panthers push. Matthew Tkachuk and Brad Marchand kept Florida in striking distance and will be key in setting the tone early in Game 2.
Toronto leads 1-0
Dallas Stars at Winnipeg Jets (Round 2, Game 1) – 9:30 PM – ESPN
Two of the West’s grittiest clubs collide in Winnipeg on Wednesday night as the Stars and Jets begin what should be a bruising, high-intensity second-round series. Both squads are coming off emotional Game 7 victories — Dallas erased a two-goal deficit against Colorado behind a stunning third-period hat trick from Mikko Rantanen, while Winnipeg staged a comeback for the ages, scoring twice late in the third before sealing a 4–3 double-overtime thriller against St. Louis. Expect a goaltending duel as Jake Oettinger and Connor Hellebuyck square off in a matchup that could define the series. Game 1 goes down at Canada Life Centre with the Jets hoping to feed off a rabid home crowd.
Series tied 0-0
Where to Watch NHL Games
There are plenty of places to make sure you don’t miss a moment of your favorite NHL team’s season. Here’s where to watch NHL hockey games on TV today and all season long:
- REGIONAL SPORTS LINEUP (only available in some areas)
- TNT – 245
- ESPN – 206
- ABC –Check local listings
- NHL Network
- NHL Center Ice*
*currently available for satellite customers
Don’t forget to add the DIRECTV Sports Pack to your subscription to make sure you can keep up with your favorite professional sports and so much more.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When does the 2024-2025 NHL season start?
The NHL season begins on October 4, 2024.
When does the 2024-2025 NHL season end?
The NHL season ends on April 17, 2025.
Who won the NHL Stanley Cup Final last season?
The Florida Panthers won the 2024 NHL Stanley Cup Final.
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