Toronto Maple Leafs forward Michael Bunting was ejected from Game 1 against the Tampa Bay Lightning for a hit on defenseman Erik Cernak.
Author: Mike Brehm, USA TODAY
NHL playoffs begin: Bruins’ Tyler Bertuzzi has great assist, steals stick in win against Panthers
Boston’s Tyler Bertuzzi had an eventful game in his NHL playoff debut, while the two Sebastian Ahos faced off as the Hurricanes battled the Islanders.
Record-setting Bruins won’t disappoint in playoffs like the 2018-19 Lightning. Here’s why.
The 2018-19 Tampa Bay Lightning were swept in the first round after a 62-win season. The 65-win Boston Bruins have what it takes to avoid that fate.
NHL Stanley Cup playoff bracket: Final league standings, first-round matchups
USA TODAY Sports has everything you need to know about the NHL’s Stanley Cup playoffs, including first-round matchups.
Washington Capitals part ways with coach Peter Laviolette after 3 seasons
Washington Capitals coach Peter Laviolette won’t be back next season after the team’s eight-season playoff streak came to an end.
Pittsburgh Penguins fire Ron Hextall, Brian Burke after lengthy playoff streak ends
The Penguins announced Friday that there would be a front-office shake-up after the first missed playoff berth since 2006.
Anaheim Ducks don’t renew coach Dallas Eakins’ contract after last-place finish
Dallas Eakins won’t get a chance to coach Connor Bedard if the last-place Anaheim Ducks manage to land the generational talent in the draft lottery.
How NHL playoff standings could shake out during regular season’s second-to-last day
Three NHL division titles, playoff matchups and the best draft lottery odds are up for grabs as the league plays a 15-game schedule on Thursday.
Pittsburgh Penguins’ 16-season NHL playoff streak ends: Why it happened
The NHL playoffs will not feature the Pittsburgh Penguins for the first time since 2006. What went wrong for Sidney Crosby and Co. this season?
How NHL playoff standings could shake out during regular season’s final days
Three division titles and three wild-card spots are at stake, along with the longest active playoff streak, with the NHL regular season ending Friday.