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The 2023-24 NHL regular season is nearing its conclusion, with teams approaching the 70-game mark. NHL insider Irfaan Gaffar recently updated the playoff schedule, announcing a shift in the start date.
Gaffar shared the news on Twitter:
"The NHL will be moving the start date of the playoffs to Saturday, April 20th, originally set for the 22nd."
David Pagnotta provided further details in response to Gaffar's tweet, confirming that the regular season will end on April 18. The playoffs will kick off just two days later.
Pagnotta also highlighted that the last possible day for a Game 7 in the Stanley Cup Final is June 24. The NHL Draft is scheduled for June 28-29 and a potential NHL Awards show could be held later that week.
The 2023–24 NHL season marks the 107th season of operation and the 106th season of play for the NHL. The regular season began on Oct. 10, 2023.
Stanley Cup Playoff scenarios
The New York Rangers can secure a playoff berth by defeating the Philadelphia Flyers in any fashion. Alternatively, they can earn a spot in the playoffs if they gain at least one point and the Detroit Red Wings lose to the Washington Capitals.
The Florida Panthers could clinch a playoff berth by defeating the Boston Bruins. Additionally, they will secure a playoff spot if they earn at least one point and the Red Wings lose to the Capitals. The Panthers can also clinch a spot if the Flyers lose to the Rangers in overtime or shootout and the Capitals lose to the Red Wings in regulation.
The Carolina Hurricanes will clinch a playoff berth if they defeat the Pittsburgh Penguins. They can also secure a spot in the playoffs if they gain at least one point and the Red Wings lose to the Capitals. Additionally, if the Flyers lose to the Rangers in overtime or shootout and the Capitals lose to the Red Wings in regulation, the Hurricanes will advance.
The Boston Bruins can clinch a playoff berth by defeating the Panthers coupled with a Red Wings loss to the Capitals in regulation.
