Clinchers & Streakers
04/18/2022
By: Jeff Yoder
Panthers & Avalanche Extend Win Streaks; Blues, Wild & Capitals Clinch Playoff Berths
After another weekend of hockey action, the race for the Presidents’ Trophy is a dead heat and multiple teams added their names to the playoff picture. Both the Panthers (10) and Avalanche (9) are riding massive win streaks as we near the postseason, and they’re neck-and-neck for the top spot in the league. Meanwhile, the Wild and Capitals punched their playoff tickets on Sunday to bring the postseason clinch number to 12. The Eastern Conference is set, but four spots remain in the West — three of those in the Pacific Division. Here’s the latest from a full weekend in the NHL.
NHL News & Notes
Blues Blast 7-Goal Period: The St. Louis Blues had five scorers tally seven goals in one period of a 8-3 win over the Predators on Sunday. The Blues’ win streak reached nine games as they clinched a playoff spot.
Caps Clinch Off Ice: Washington secured a playoff spot thanks to the Islanders’ loss on Sunday. It’s the Capitals eighth consecutive trip to the postseason.
Wild Earn Bid With Wild Finish: Minnesota used a 5-4 overtime victory on Sunday to oust the Sharks and punch their spot in the playoffs. Kevin Fiala had a goal and three assists before Jared Spurgeon netted the OT winner.
Presidents’ Trophy Race
Avalanche (116 points)
Panthers (114 points)
Maple Leafs (106 points)
Hurricanes (104 points)
Rangers (104 points)
Photo: Icon Sportswire / Getty Images