The chase for hockey's ultimate prize is back. The 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs have arrived, and the bracket is wide open, promising two months of unforgettable drama. Sixteen teams begin the grueling journey, but only one will lift the iconic silver chalice and etch its name into history.

This year's tournament feels particularly unpredictable. For the first time in a decade, the defending champion will not be in the field, as the Florida Panthers missed the cut after their 2025 title run. That vacuum at the top creates a golden opportunity for contenders like the Presidents' Trophy-winning Colorado Avalanche and the Vegas Golden Knights, who are looking to recapture their championship form under coach John Tortorella.

The storylines are everywhere. In the West, Connor McDavid, fresh off another 130-point masterpiece, is on a mission to finally bring the Cup back to Edmonton. The East features a classic "Battle of Pennsylvania" between the Penguins and Flyers, reigniting a fierce regional rivalry. And then there's the feel-good story of the postseason: the Buffalo Sabres. After ending the NHL's longest playoff drought at 14 years, Lindy Ruff's squad, Atlantic Division champions, have transformed from December strugglers into a legitimate threat to make a deep run.

From the Sabres' resurgence to the Utah Mammoth's historic first playoff appearance, every series is packed with intrigue. Below, you'll find the essential schedule and viewing information you need to follow every heart-stopping moment on the road to the Stanley Cup.

The action will be broadcast across ESPN and TNT Sports family of networks, including ESPN, ESPN2, ABC, TNT, TBS, and truTV. The Stanley Cup Final will be shown exclusively on ABC. For fans on the go, every game can be streamed live via DIRECTV, with ESPN network games also available on ESPN+.